Airbus Defence and Space has been awarded three new contracts by the UK Ministry of Defence to provide cryptographic key management technology for three additional RAF platforms.
Already in use on RAF TYPHOONs and A400Ms, Airbus’ Local Key Management System (LKMS) will now be integrated on UK F-35B LIGHTNING IIs, C-130J HERCULES and the VOYAGER aerial tanker/transport.
LKMS handles and packages cryptographic keys so that they can be loaded to the recipient aircraft’s End Crypto Units using a single electronic fill gun prior to each individual mission. As well as reducing turnaround time between missions, use of the LKMS allows for extended out-of-area operations by storing and distributing multiple cryptographic keys, thus contributing to increased overall operational effectiveness and a reduction in the required footprint of support services.