Supporting Secure, AD HOC Joins for Tactical Networks
Abstract
Modern warfare tactics demand timely, high quality intelligence information. Strike aircraft are in special need of accurate, real-time targeting information due to their proximity to hostile targets. The Defense Advanced Research Project Agency's Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT) initiative focuses on responding to this need by improving distributed command and control operations through a low-latency, high bandwidth, and dynamically reconfigurable network infrastructure. In this research, we develop an algorithm that supports the entry of a TTNT participant into a pre-existing, ad hoc, and wireless net-centric environment. Analysis of the shortcomings of similar current technologies, specifically Jini networking technology and Bluetooth, established a need for a security-focused approach to ad hoc networking. Likewise, popular secure Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) implementations have also proven insufficient due to their reliance on non-mobile systems. The algorithm presented in this project applies a novel key management procedure to provide information assurance in the TTNT realm. The implementation of the key management scheme included the creation of a simulation to test different network joining scenarios. This simulation provided both a successful implementation of the secure joining algorithm, as well as the means to collect empirical runtime measurements. Incorporation of a trust management scheme is also discussed. Our approach addresses the complex scenarios in which a previously authenticated network node could verify a joining user's credibility. This research provides a necessary first step in the development of ad hoc networks suitable for employment in network centric warfare operations. We demonstrate the capability for wireless nodes to rapidly and securely join existing TTNT networks. Additionally, this research provides a key management approach that contributes to the design of secure, ad hoc networks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 07, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA403488
Entities
People
- Joshua B. Datko
Organizations
- United States Naval Academy