Technology Development (TD)
Abstract
Technical Development (TD) conducts concept development and early systems engineering activities to analyze evolving threats and Communications Security (COMSEC) capability gaps across AF and DoD mission areas. Develops, plans and executes foundational technology demonstration efforts to inform COMSEC requirements, concept characterization and technical description (CCTD), and support cost estimates prior to Materiel Development Decision (MDD) for future cryptographic initiatives. Mitigates risk for thousands of AF and DoD users affected by algorithm security issues and ensures required security upgrades can be integrated into the AF and DoD enterprise. Works closely with NSA and other services to develop standards that increase security of communication and information products and facilitate efficient crypto and COMSEC enterprise management. Includes but is not limited to: Common Cryptologic Management Information Base (CC MIB), Advanced Cryptographic Capabilities Increment One (ACC Inc. 1), Cryptographic Modernization 2 (CM2), Trusted Systems Network (TSN)/Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM), Space Aligned Ground Equipment (SAGE), and MILSATCOM Crypto Mod (MCM). Space Aligned Ground Equipment (SAGE) addresses capability gaps by developing Ground Operating Equipment (GOE) to support modular cryptography, operating at higher data rates, incorporating enhanced system protective capabilities, and including tenants of the Warrior Construct. MILSATCOM Crypto Modernization (MCM) Initiative is comprised of the Protected Tactical SATCOM (PTS) and Evolved Strategic Satellite (ESS). The PTS Crypto Program will provide the cryptographic capabilities for Telemetry, Tracking, & Commanding (TT&C) links for the Protected Tactical SATCOM. This satellite system will provide worldwide, beyond line of sight, Anti-Jam (AJ), low probability of intercept communications to tactical warfighters in both benign and contested environments via space-based fully processed SATCOM payloads. The centerpiece of the PTS system will be a new, more resilient Protected Tactical Waveform (PTW), designed to mitigate the effects of advanced jamming in Anti-Access/Area Denial environments. The ESS Crypto Program will provide the cryptographic capabilities for the Mission Communications and TT&C links for the ESS system. This satellite system will be a follow-on program to the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) satellite constellation providing survivable, global, secure, protected, and jam-resistant communications for high-priority military ground, sea and air assets. ESS satellites will be interoperable with existing AEHF satellites and AEHF-compatible sea, air and ground SATCOM terminals. ESS satellites will also extend the Enhanced Polar Satellite (EPS) systems missions as they operate in a highly elliptical orbit.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2020
- Source ID
- d53280a0d1e32ba26151839de07795a7