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.

FMI: www.baesystems.com