Raytheon to produce LLC 7M encryptor
Raytheon will produce next-generation encryption devices to protect military tactical data transmissions under a $32 million contract announced on 21 December.
The system to be supplied is the Link Level Communication Security 7M (LLC 7M) encryptor, designed to enhance security for air, surface, sub-surface and ground communications over the Link 22 tactical radio system.
The LLC 7M has received National Security Agency Type 1 certification for the protection of information classified up to the Secret level in the Link 22 environment. Link 22 replaces the legacy Link 11 radio system, and is interoperable with the current Link 16 system, providing longer-distance, beyond-line-of-sight communications without reliance on satellites or persistent airborne relay.
The LLC 7M is being developed as part of the NATO Improved Link Eleven, or NILE project, which includes international partners Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK.
Chuck Schwartz, project manager for SPAWAR's NILE project office, said: ‘With the signing of the LLC 7M production contract, and its ability to seamlessly integrate with Link 16, the Link 22 system is now ready for prime time. We expect the system to eventually be adopted by more than 30 allied nations.’
Raytheon's contract includes a five-year base performance period with an additional five-year option. If exercised, the option could bring the cumulative value of the contract to $63 million.
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