Maple Defender is CJCR’s very own cyber security competition! It is open to all cadet corps and squadron teams, and also to cadet teams from the United Kingdom (UK). In 2025, close to 200 cadets from Canada and the UK participated.

 Teams of 2-6 cadets work together to find and fix security issues in a simulated computer system. They can also earn extra points by answering a cybersecurity quiz.

Teams can have between 2 and 6 members, and there is no limit to the number of teams each corps or squadron can have.

This competition is open to all corps and squadrons with cadets interested in cybersecurity, even if they’re total beginners! Our goal is to learn new things, connect with other cadets, and have fun.

Maple Defender Competition: open from Feb 19 to Mar 15, and cadets can participate at any time within those dates. The competition is virtual and takes about four hours to complete, but it must be done in one sitting.  You cannot save your progress to continue at another time.

Each team will need to secure a simulated computer system against cyber-attacks, by finding and fixing potential issues. There is also a quiz where you can test your knowledge of cybersecurity!

 Your team can earn points by:

– Identifying security vulnerabilities

– Configuring firewalls

– Securing user accounts

– Enabling software updates

The simulated computer system is called a “virtual machine.” Participants download this software onto their own computers, so your team will need at least three computers capable of running Windows.  Just about any modern computer with at least 8GB of RAM will work – fancy gaming computers are not required!

However, some devices are not compatible with virtual machines. These include smartphones, tablets, Chromebooks, and some ultra-lightweight laptops. These can be used for the quiz, but not the actual competition.

Team sign-up link:  MAPLE DEFENDER CHALLENGE – Fill out form