Ft. MEADE, Md., April 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company
(NYSE: RTNA, RTNB) today announced that the National Security Agency's (NSA)
Information Systems Security Organization has approved use of the company's
Cornfield multi-chip module by certifying that the device supports
cryptographic operations to protect the communication of certain categories of
classified information. The announcement culminates a four-year collaboration
between NSA and Raytheon on the development of the chip set.
Cornfield represents a new generation of software-programmable security
products that provides options, rather than a single-purpose or "point"
solution, to address the challenge of information security. With flexibility
that stems from its software-based architecture, the multi-chip module is
compatible with existing and future security algorithms - making it a
candidate for use in a wide array of communication systems. Raytheon will
demonstrate the chipset's performance on a prototype for Joint Tactical Radio
System, the Department of Defense's model for software-defined communication
systems.
Cornfield encrypts and decrypts one or more channels of data transmitted
simultaneously. The multi-chip module comes in two or four-channel
configuration packages that process data at rates up to 40 megabits per second
over each channel. It features over-the-air re-key functionality, algorithm
storage, power transient detection and built-in-test. All algorithms and keys
can be loaded through fill port interfaces; the multi-chip module's storage
capacity accommodates eight algorithms and 64 keys.
John Oglesby, Raytheon Communication Systems vice president, said,
"Cornfield is a system developer's `do-it-yourself' device that eliminates the
need for engineering support services. Certified developers can obtain
Cornfield's embedment manual and install the modules themselves. This feature
saves money and introduces new products to the market sooner."
Raytheon Company, based in Lexington, Mass., is a global technology leader
that provides products and services in the areas of commercial and defense
electronics, engineering and construction, and business and special mission
aircraft. Raytheon has operations throughout the United States and serves
customers in more than 80 countries.
Editor's note:
-- Cornfield is a product of Raytheon Communication Systems, based in Ft.
Wayne, Ind., where approximately 20 people are employed on the project.
-- NSA, in collaboration with Raytheon Communication Systems, provides
algorithm support.
-- An algorithm is a special method of problem solving that employs
repetitive mathematical calculations to reach a solution.
-- Since 1948, NSA has been the government agency designated to certify
the use of information security devices.
Contact: Patricia Perlini
219.429.5547
http://www.raytheon.com
SOURCE Raytheon Company
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