Protected Communication in the Air with MultiCom Radio Encryption
03 December 2008
Helicopters are indispensable tools for air combat forces. They can reach places that would otherwise only be accessible with difficulty. As communication via radio – the typical communication channel for helicopters – is easy to intercept and therefore needs protection, an encryption unit is an essential piece of on-board equipment. However, space is at a premium, which means it is an advantage if the encryption unit is capable of flexible installation.
Unlike planes, helicopters have the advantage of not requiring a runway for taking off or landing. They can carry both people and goods to virtually impassable locations, often not connected by road and only accessible on foot with difficulty. Helicopters are therefore indispensable tools for armies, navies and especially air forces.
Radio contact is still of great importance for communication between helicopters, planes and ground stations. Protection for radio communications is an even greater factor in the case of operations far away from the home territory. For example, operations forming part of peacekeeping operations in areas of armed conflict are associated with great risks for helicopters and their crews. Protected communication keeps flight paths, information on the freight being carried and much more secret and safe from potential attack.
The universal MultiCom encryption platform
The MultiCom HC-2650 radio encryption unit is ideal for protecting communications in military contexts. This universal encryption platform has been successfully installed in helicopters, for example the Super Puma type. Further projects involving the NH90 and Dauphin helicopters are under way. The HC-2650 was designed for military application and is therefore accordingly robust and suitable for problem-free use in motor vehicles, tanks, aircraft and helicopters. Installation in civilian aircraft (for VIPs, such as presidential transport) is also possible and has been implemented.
The “multi” of the HC-2650 MultiCom covers many aspects: multi-radio means that all known radio units can be connected; multi-band means encryption over all frequency bands used, multi-application covers voice (in various modes for HF and V/UHF), data (with integrated or external modem), messaging and IP/VPN.
The unit automatically detects voice or data communication, which means that the same radio channel can be used for both voice and data without requiring intervention from the operator. Multi-algo means that several algorithms can be used, a requirement for multinational manoeuvres (the national algorithm and also the allied algorithm).
