Cubic completes CME demonstration
Cubic Global Defense and Draken International have completed a live flight demonstration of the Cubic Miniature Encryptor (CME) in Lakeland, Florida, the company announced on 29 October.
The CME performed airborne encryption of the P5 Combat Training System (P5CTS) on tactical fighter aircraft. The CME encryption solution increases security for advanced air combat training and supports P5CTS pod and ground station encryption compatibility with the Joint Strike Fighter's P5 Internal Sub-system.
Cubic used two Draken fighter aircraft to carry the encrypted P5 pods during the demonstration. The engineers at the P5CTS Live Monitor ground station could track the aircraft for the full duration of the flight, including taxi, takeoff and landing using the CME. The TSPI data and uplinked manual kill notification were successfully passed across the P5CTS encrypted data link.
The company further verified backwards interoperability of the CME through an unmodified P5CTS Live Monitor ground station and an unencrypted pod on a third aircraft. The encrypted system could thus see and relay the unencrypted data from the P5 pod. The unencrypted system could relay, but not ‘see’ the encrypted P5 pods.
The P5CTS provides real-time and post-mission training for surface-to-air, air-to-ground and air-to-air combat missions by displaying and recording mission data, live-air picture, and relaying Time, Space and Positioning Information (TSPI) between participating aircraft during training. It features GPS-enabled, aircraft-mounted airborne instrumentation ‘pods’ plus ground stations that help aircrew conduct, monitor and control air combat training and post-flight debriefing.
The CME can encrypt sensitive information including complex fighter tactics, offering an immediate layer of security protection. It is interoperable with the JSF P5CTS, making it backwards and forwards compatible with P5CTS ranges.
Michael Knowles, vice president and deputy general manager of air ranges, Cubic Global Defense, said: ‘The CME is a migration path for upgrades to air combat training system ranges, and encryption is one of the incremental upgrades needed to develop a true live, virtual and constructive training capability.’
More from Digital Battlespace
-
China turns to US-made AI chips to boost hypersonic weapon performance
Chinese researchers have been using a US-designed AI semiconductor chip to enhance the performance of a hypersonic weapon’s scramjet engine, significantly improving computational tasks and suggesting potential integration into future missile systems.
-
Galvion introduces BATLCHRG for seamless wireless charging in special operations
Galvion unveiled the BATLCHARG wireless charging system at SOF Week, designed for special operations forces to recharge gear on the move or while stationary, enhancing battlefield power management efficiency.
-
Spectra Group showcases the GENSS tactical radio at SOF Week, enhancing global special operations communications
Spectra Group introduced the GENSS tactical radio at SOF Week, designed to enhance global special operations with versatile, secure communication across multiple bands and satellite connectivity.
-
Cubic highlights real-time tactical radio language translation (video)
Among the capabilities on display by Cubic at SOF Week 2024 was the company's tactical radio voice translation, which was demonstrated to Shephard.
-
Orbital Overwatch: The Crucial Role of Lasers in Space-Based Intelligence
Amidst escalating global tensions, cutting-edge laser technology and expansive space domain awareness are vital for military operations. Orbital intelligence is transforming the landscape of global security, demonstrating its critical role in contemporary warfare.
-
Intelsat boosts SOF communications with advanced multi-orbit technology (video)
Intelsat is enhancing communication solutions for special operations forces through an approach focusing on multi-orbit capabilities, network integration, and advanced terminal technology.