Poland's Cyber Commander Becomes NATO Strategic Advisor

Major General Karol Molenda, the architect of Poland's Cyber Command, has been selected by NATO's Military Committee to serve as a Cyber Champion. In this strategic advisory role, he will focus on the transformation of cyberspace within the alliance.

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Without a doubt, we are a country that can share its own experiences.

Molenda emphasized that Poland has evolved beyond being a mere recipient of cybersecurity. "Without a doubt, we are a country that can share its own experiences," he told WNP. He plans to advise the NATO strategic commander on integrating cyberspace into joint operations, ensuring it is a cohesive element rather than an afterthought.

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I will advise the NATO Strategic Commander on the implementation of cyberspace in joint operations – so that 'cyber' is not an addition to other domains, but 'binds' the Alliance's efforts.

He believes this appointment is a recognition of Poland's growing cyber capabilities. "We are no longer just a recipient of cybersecurity; undoubtedly, we are a country that can share its own experiences, capabilities, and its school of cyber resilience," Molenda stated. He highlighted the Cyber Command's valuable experience in countering sophisticated Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), noting that not all NATO countries possess such extensive combat experience.

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We are no longer just a recipient of cybersecurity; undoubtedly, we are a country that can share its own experiences, capabilities, and its school of cyber resilience. I will want to implement this in NATO structures.

Molenda described the selection process as rigorous, involving interviews and scrutiny from military representatives. He believes his tactical, operational, and strategic experience, particularly from forming the Cyber Command and his time in military counterintelligence, were crucial factors in his selection. His goal is to foster greater interoperability and a unified approach to cyber defense among NATO allies, making it more difficult for adversaries to target individual nations.

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This is the experience of a country that is very strongly attacked by various APT groups and yet manages to counteract these attacks. Undoubtedly, not all NATO countries have similar experiences.