Spaceborne Equip (Comsec)

The Spaceborne Equip (Comsec) program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on procuring cryptographic products essential for secure communications in space environments. This initiative is crucial for maintaining cybersecurity across Department of Defense (DoD) satellite platforms, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. It supports compliance with the Cybersecurity Policy of Space Systems Used to Support National Security Missions (CNSSP No. 12), providing lifecycle sustainment support to both DoD and commercial systems involved in national security missions.

One of the primary objectives of the Spaceborne Equip (Comsec) program is to secure command and control of satellites, preventing unauthorized access and potential destruction. It facilitates the secure transmission of satellite telemetry data to ground control stations, safeguarding critical information about satellite capabilities. The program also ensures that mission data collected by satellite sensors is securely transmitted, offering warfighters an integrated view of the battle space. This capability is vital for protecting information related to warfighter positions, mission planning, and intelligence operations.

The Space Modular Common Cryptography (SMCC) Program within this initiative aims to reduce development and lifecycle costs by providing a common cryptographic solution set endorsed by the National Security Agency (NSA). It focuses on securing communication links and data transmission while incorporating standard interfaces that leverage existing technologies. Designed to be scalable, upgradeable, and reconfigurable, it supports future technological advancements. The program supports procurement activities for various space systems across the Air Force, Space Force, DoD, and Intelligence Community.

Additionally, the Spaceborne Equip (Comsec) program addresses logistics requirements by procuring necessary lifecycle sustainment elements for long-term mission support. This includes specialized test sets, training materials, maintenance manuals, spare components, and modifications. The Aerospace Vehicle Equipment Products component provides cryptographic solutions for operating in space environments across different satellite applications. Meanwhile, Ground Operating Equipment Products ensure secure communication between ground nodes and satellite platforms. The program's increased focus reflects a strategic response to evolving threats and a commitment to enhancing space system resilience and security.