Secure Interface System (SIS)

Proven, secure flight line operations

• Type 1 certified, EAL5 evaluated and approved for worldwide use
• Multiple programmable crypto algorithms
• Certified key management
• Multiple security level data filtering and encryption
• Decryption of mission assessment data

There are three phases to a successful mission — Planning, Execution and Debriefing. Mission Planners and Debriefers deal with raw, highly sensitive information in security-protected enclaves. The warfighter who executes the mission does not have that luxury. Any data either used or gathered during a mission must be protected by Type 1 encryption. The General Dynamics C4 Systems Secure Interface System (SIS) is the critical security link that protects the mission-critical data going to an aircraft and unlocks the collected data brought back.

Mission planning data comes from a variety of sources and can have multiple classification levels. The trusted filtering capability of the SIS sorts that data and encrypts it using the appropriate keys. When all of the mission data has been secured, including the crypto keys, it is downloaded to the Data Transfer Cartridge (DTC) for transport to the aircraft.

At the aircraft, the corresponding keys are loaded into the Airborne Crypto Modules using a separate key fill device. These keys, along with specific aircraft and pilot codes, will enable the Airborne Crypto Modules to decrypt the mission plan and load it into the appropriate aircraft system so that the execution phase can be carried out.

While conducting the mission, information is gathered by the onboard sensors and ISR systems and stored. To maintain the integrity of this data, it is encrypted and downloaded to the DTC and removed from the aircraft at the conclusion of the mission. The mission data from DTC is then decrypted and disseminated by the SIS for analysis, audits, and post mission assessments.

Briefing photo by Lance Cpl. Cathryn D. Lindsay courtesy U.S. Marines Corps; F-22A photo by Kevin Robertson courtesy U.S. Air Force.