Research by DEWC Service Explores Hybrid Moving Target Protection Strategies

A groundbreaking research initiative, led by Professor Tim Moore of the University of Adelaide, is set to explore the potential of hybrid moving target defense (MTD) in container-based cloud environments. The collaborative effort between DEWC Services, the University of Adelaide, and Defence Trailblazer is poised to revolutionize cyber defense, ensuring the Australian Defence Force and its partners have access to the most advanced security solutions available.

The key objectives of this research include optimizing hybrid MTD deployment for enhanced security effectiveness and operational efficiency, easy integration with traditional cyber security frameworks, developing cost-effective solutions, and validating hybrid MTD strategies through testing in high-threat, real-world scenarios.

Associate Professor Claudia Szabo of the Lead Complex Systems Research Group at the University of Adelaide stated that the research will delve into various defense strategies in complex cyber threat scenarios. The focus of the research is on understanding how reinforcement learning can enhance adaptability and efficiency in cyber defense.

The project utilizes reinforcement learning to develop an AI-driven cyber defense framework that adapts dynamically to evolving threats. By investing in cutting-edge AI-driven cyber defense, Defence Trailblazer is ensuring Australia's resilience against future cyber threats.

As the research progresses, the team will develop a proof-of-concept prototype, demonstrating the practical deployment of hybrid MTD strategies in real-world defense applications. The AI-driven approach is expected to enable learning optimal MTD configurations, improving security posture and reducing vulnerabilities in cloud-based defense systems.

Dr Tim McKay, from DEWC Services, stated that the integration of reinforcement learning into Hybrid MTD represents a major step forward in cyber resilience. The initiative aims to overcome limitations in existing MTD models, such as scalability, cost-effectiveness, and real-world application.

DEWC's participation in Defence Trailblazer is part of its commitment to workforce skilling programs for defense. A highly skilled workforce is essential for meeting evolving national security challenges, as stated by DEWC.

The presentation of this research will take place at the inaugural Defence Trailblazer Technical and Capability Conference on 18 March. Defence Trailblazer Executive Director Dr Sanjay Mazumdar mentioned that the project is a key example of how Defence Trailblazer is facilitating critical research that will directly benefit national security.

This project represents a paradigm shift in cyber defense, reinforcing Australia's resilience against future cyber threats. MTD is a method aimed at disrupting adversarial attacks by continuously modifying the attack surface, making it harder for attackers to penetrate systems. The presentation at the conference will highlight shortcomings in existing MTD approaches and discuss how reinforcement learning-enabled hybrid MTD can enhance cyber resilience in container-based cloud environments.