Targets for RADAR Calibration and Test of Advanced Discrimination Technologies and Concepts

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) advanced technology microsat missions require secure space-to-ground data and space-to-space links. Present day spacecraft cryptology devices were not designed for small satellite or responsive space use, and as a result, this has a significant impact on the performance and cost of the mission. Today's responsive and affordable missions require an NSA approved Type-1 encryption unit that is highly miniaturized, support net-centric communications, can operate from a wide range of bus voltages, and most importantly, support various ground station architectures. This Phase-II project will build and demonstrate a sophisticated Microsat Encryption Unit (MEU) system that will meet the needs of these missions. It will be designed to mechanical and electrical specifications that meet the small satellite market needs. In addition, it will enable advanced TCP/IP communications in compliance with the DoD's Transformational Communications concept of operations. It will support higher integration of TCP/IP enabled Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) technologies which will also reduce development cost and integration time. At the end of the Phase-II effort, a flight MEU and corresponding ground MEU prototypes will be built, tested, and validated. The design will be reviewed by the NSA for approval for use as a space-to-ground and space-to-space Type-1 encryption device.