State-of-the-Art Facility Enables Testing of Classified Data Over Wireless Networks

Lockheed Martin recently opened a new Wireless Cyber Security Center, one of only a handful of technology labs capable of testing wireless communications systems in a classified environment. The lab allows defense and intelligence agencies to test and evaluate wireless systems like 802.11 Wi-Fi or broadband satellite links on a Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) network.

"Wireless networks offer a tremendous leap forward in flexibility and throughput, but they also represent a significant security challenge," said Bob Eastman, Lockheed Martin Vice President, Information Systems. "As our customers look to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of wireless nets, they need an environment where they can perform realistic tests with real-world technology and networks. Our new center, which is certified at TS/SCI, gives them that high-fidelity environment for testing and strengthening wireless defense technologies and strategies."

The center supports a broad spectrum of wireless networks, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 802.16 Wi-MAX, cell phones, and Ku and C-band satellite communications. A sealed and re-enforced test chamber ensures that signals from these systems stay within the confines of the lab, allowing for testing with classified systems.

The center has three primary areas of focus. First, it seeks to help define and evaluate wireless security strategies, policies and concepts of operation. Second, it serves as a proving ground for next-generation security technologies. Using the center, Lockheed Martin and its customers can effectively gauge the vulnerabilities of cyber security applications, and can work to shore up defenses. The lab also supports assessment of mobile ad-hoc networks that will form the backbone of tomorrow's battlefield communications. Finally, the center supports users in the field engaged in mission-oriented wireless signals applications.

Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs more than 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.