- Starion Netherlands is developing digital twins to support the monitoring and control of radiation and nuclear waste sites in Central Asia.
- The ‘Enhancing RN Critical Infrastructure Protection, Safety and Security in Central Asia (P101-CAIRN)’ project, implemented by the International Science and Technology Center, will make use of satellite monitoring and advanced cybersecurity technologies, enabling stakeholders to monitor, predict and respond to potential hazards.
- The digital twins will be developed and demonstrated in partnership with Starion’s sister company Nexova, using Nexova’s digital emulation platform CITEF.
Starion Netherlands is undertaking a strategic collaboration with the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) to support the protection and long‑term resilience of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear critical infrastructures across Central Asia. Working with its sister company Nexova, Starion will develop hybrid information technology and operational technology (IT/OT) digital twins and apply advanced cybersecurity capabilities to deliver cyber-resilient monitoring and control systems for such sites.
Central Asia’s industrial landscape has been shaped by mineral mining, oil processing and manufacturing, with toxic waste contributing to soil, water and air contamination. Many sites remain vulnerable to environmental degradation and accidental leakage, which poses risks that extend beyond national borders. Compounding the issue, the region is susceptible to natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods and landslides, which can destabilise facilities.
The focus of the new partnership between Starion and ISTC is the introduction of a comprehensive, technology-driven framework to improve oversight of these critical infrastructures and enhance environmental protection.
Digital twins can simulate real-world scenarios, allowing testing and refinement of strategies without impacting actual operations. This approach helps stakeholders gain a comprehensive understanding of potential risks and develop effective mitigation measures. The digital twins will be developed using Nexova’s digital emulation platform CITEF (Cyber Integration, Test and Evaluation Field).
Training programmes will ensure local personnel in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan are equipped with the knowledge and skills to operate and maintain the resulting advanced monitoring systems.
Alexandre Custaud, Team Leader of P101- CAIRN at ISTC, said: “The current state of radiological and nuclear waste management in Central Asia presents significant risks to environmental safety, public health and regional security. This project will strengthen monitoring and early‑warning capabilities, which are critical to address these risks. The digital twin solution being developed by Starion and Nexova is an ideal way to implement these monitoring systems and provide the training needed to use them effectively.”
Matteo Merialdo, Starion Director of Cybersecurity Technology and Innovation, added: “Through this partnership, ISTC and Starion will help build a more secure and more resilient approach to waste management and environmental monitoring in Central Asia, enabled by advanced technologies and underpinned by the strength of European innovation. This programme is a great example of how digital twins can make a significant real-world difference. CITEF provides the ideal digital twin platform to address this particular need, not only for monitoring purposes but also for training.”
The P101-CAIRN project is being funded by the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA).