Army Activates Cyberdefense Command In Lima

The Peruvian army's Cyberdefense Command in Lima is fully operational, reports Dialogo, a digital magazine produced by the U.S. Southern Command.

The command was formally stood up on Oct. 29, 2018, the magazine said on Monday.

The command serves to protect military assets, such as weapons and data systems, from possible cyber attacks. It also monitors cyberspace and takes action as required.

About 50 officers and non-commissioned officers work at the command and are trained in cyberdefense, cybersecurity and cybercrime.

The Cyberdefense Command has built a strong partnership with the Brazilian army, the regional leader in cyberdefense, said Col. Ernesto Castillo Fuerman, the head of the command.

The command is currently preparing for the Pan American Games in Lima in July and August, as well as the FIFA U-17 World Cup soccer tournament in October. 

According to the 2017 U.N. Global Cybersecurity Index, Peru ranks 78th of 193 member nations and is considered a developing country that is developing complex commitments and participating in several cybersecurity initiatives and programs.