Case Study: DARPA strengthens electrical grid cyberattack detection and recovery with Red Balloon Security

Red balloon security enables cyberattack detection and recovery capabilities for the electrical grid

DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, needed to strengthen the security and rapid recovery of the electrical grid even while cyber attackers tried to prevent service restoration. Red Balloon Security helped address this challenge through its embedded cybersecurity software, including Symbiote technology for mission-critical grid devices.

Red Balloon Security deployed its technology on switches, controllers, protection relays, and other essential equipment across the RADICS test grid, working with device manufacturers, utilities, and U.S. government agencies in full-scale exercises. The solution improved situational awareness, helped identify and counter specific cyberattack methods, and supported successful defense of a 17-substation, three-generator power grid during red-team simulations, demonstrating stronger response and black-start recovery capabilities.

DARPA

Walter Weiss

Program Manager