DARPA unveils SHARE programme
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has launched its Secure Handhelds on Assured Resilient networks at the tactical Edge (SHARE) programme, which aims to overcome the challenges of data sharing and communication in remote regions over limited networks.
The goal of the programme is to create a system where information at multiple levels of security classification can be processed on a single handheld device using a resilient secure network that links devices without needing to route traffic through secure data centres. This capability would be able to operate over existing commercial and military networks while maintaining the security of sensitive information and safety of operations.
Currently the sharing of classified or secure data between troops and coalition partners requires an end-to-end connection to secure servers via a dedicated digital ‘pipe’ approved for the specific security level of data being transmitted. If that tactical network is overloaded or if a glitch causes a break in the digital chain, the message or data is typically lost and the process must be repeated until a connection is completed, potentially hindering the mission in fast-moving tactical situations. Additionally, the current computers and infrastructure needed to manage multiple levels of US classified and coalition information are too bulky for tactical use in the field and can take months or longer to deploy.
SHARE is focused on three key areas: technologies and policy tools for distributed tactical security management on handheld devices; networking technologies based on resilient and secure architectures that work in challenging environments; and software that rapidly configures security across the network.
The end goal of the programme is to demonstrate secure exchange of information at multiple levels of classification over unsecured military and commercial networks, such as Wi-Fi and cellular, using a heterogeneous mix of devices—from tactical radios to laptops to handheld devices.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
AUSA 2024: General Micro Systems adds four new products to the X9 Spider family
The airborne three-domain, the two ground-based and the ¼ ATR OpenVPX-based cross-domain systems were engineered to provide real-time security across multi-domain operations.
-
BAE Systems gets go-ahead for second phase of mission communications programme
DARPA’s Mission-Integrated Network Control (MINC) programme was set up to develop an autonomous tactical network and enable critical data flow in contested environments.
-
Just Released: Space Technology Report
Why space is an essential part of modern military capabilities
-
Work-from-home warfare: the power of mixed reality
Defence-secure mixed reality headsets can save hours, or even weeks, of travel time to fix defunct equipment or get subject experts effectively “on-site” where they are needed.
-
Northrop Grumman receives follow-on contract for CUAS and C-IED systems
The Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare (JCREW) counter-improvised explosive device (C-IED) and Drone Restricted Access Using Known Electromagnetic Warfare (DRAKE) counter-UAS (CUAS) systems are mounted and dismounted RF jammers.
-
Adarga’s Vantage AI software selected for UK Strategic Command’s Defence Support
Adarga’s Vantage information analysis tool is in service with the UK MoD and individual UK forces. It builds on the company’s Knowledge Platform which processes, organises and analyses open source material, as well as information held by the user’s military, security and intelligence services.