Merlin Presents CyberWatch 2026: Race to Resilience
A hands-on, immersive Capture the Flag (CTF) and Tabletop Exercise (TTX)
experience for federal and public sector security teams
The race to cyber resilience is on.
Participating technology partners
Why attend THE MERLIN cyberwatch
Trusted by federal agencies for 30 years, Merlin invites you to the CyberWatch 2026: a multi-mission CTF competition and Executive Tabletop exercise for federal teams. Sharpen your skills, stimulate conversations, test your decision-making, and gain valuable cybersecurity insights aligned to your federal mission requirements.
This is a hands-on, technical-focused, executive-centric immersive experience across three distinct tracks:
Practitioner Track
A Capture the Flag competition calibrated for participants with hands-on technical experience, competing solo or in teams of two. Under real-time pressure, secure a live environment, protect critical assets, and get ahead of cloud, data, and cryptographic risk using industry-leading technologies to capture each prized digital flag.
Limited seats available.
Executive Track
An interactive Tabletop exercise and moderated panel discussions designed for CISOs, CIOs, and senior executive leaders. Hear directly from top voices across federal, SLED, and industry shaping the future of cyber resilience.
General Audience Track
No hands-on component required. Attend the Keynote lunch and panel discussions, explore partner exhibits with the latest innovations, and network at your own pace.
Stay tuned: more details, Keynote speakers, and other special guests to be announced soon!
Schedule Snapshot
10:30am – 12pm
Welcome Lunch & Keynote — all attendees
12pm – 4pm
Technical Sessions & Breakouts
4pm – 5pm
Closing keynote and Award Ceremony
5pm – 7pm
Networking Reception — light bites, drinks, and great conversations — open to everyone
Full session-by-session agenda and speaker lineup coming soon.

