Mon, Jan 22, 2007
System Will Improve Security Of Military Transponders
BAE Systems has received
National Security Agency (NSA) Mode 5 certification for three of
its identification friend or foe (IFF) products. BAE Systems is the
first Department of Defense contractor to receive the
certification.
IFF enables forces to recognize friendly aircraft and surface
vessels and avoid fratricide. The technology, in use since World
War II, has two main components: interrogators, which ask the
questions, and transponders, which provide the responses. The Mode
5 IFF system was developed by NATO as an enhancement to older, less
capable IFF systems.
The NSA's Information Assurance Directorate certified three BAE
Systems IFF systems -- the AN/UPX-41(C) Digital Interrogator,
RT-1912(C)/APX Common IFF Digital Transponder, and RT-1918(C)/APX
MIDS Compatible Transponder -- for full encryption of Mode 5
interrogations and replies enabling authentication and data
confidentiality.
Mode 5 employs secure message formats and data transmission
increasing identification capability and allowing US and coalition
forces to operate together while maintaining security and reducing
or eliminating losses due to friendly-fire. The system permits
identification of friendly forces well beyond a pilot's visual
range.
"Mode 5 certification is a major milestone in IFF development,"
said Paul Markwardt, BAE Systems vice president and general manager
for Identification and Situational Awareness at Greenlawn, NY. "It
allows BAE Systems to provide an enhanced product to further
protect the warfighter."
The Mode 5 enhancements include improved algorithms, increased
security, and improved key management, interoperability, and
supportability. BAE Systems is under contract with the US Navy and
Army for low-rate initial production of Mode 5 systems and
installation on shipboard and airborne platforms. Deliveries over
the next five years could exceed 5,000 units.
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