#United States #Reston #SpiderOak #Zero-Trust #HAIPE

SpiderOak's Revolutionary High-Assurance Encryptor for Space Security

In an exciting development for space cybersecurity, SpiderOak has been awarded a contract by the Space Development Agency (SDA) under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This contract involves the deployment of a cutting-edge High-Assurance Internet Protocol Encryptor (HAIPE) that comes with advanced zero-trust features for use in the SDA's Network Established Beyond the Upper Limits of the Atmosphere (NEBULA).

Introducing Zero-Trust in Space

This effort marks a significant milestone as it will be the first instance of implementing zero-trust concepts in an orbital environment. The zero-trust model integrates decentralized identity-based authentication and authorization, facilitating local policy decisions and enforcement at the edge. These innovations are designed to boost the resilience and availability of missions while ensuring robust data protection, even in contested settings.

Russell Teehan, Technical Director for the Space Development Agency, commented, "The adoption of decentralized security services and advanced data protections and access ensures mission success and resilient architectures across space and all domains." This strategic approach is in response to the increasing need for security amidst complex deployments typical in space operations.

Technological Advantages of the HAIPE

For this initiative, SpiderOak has chosen the Apollo crypto module from Collins Aerospace as its primary encryption solution. This secure and programmable module offers adaptable encryption functions that can protect sensitive information in real time. Such flexibility is critical for warfighters and guardians who require secure access to data at the tactical edge without compromising on speed, agility, or security.

The integration of Collins Aerospace's Apollo module into SpiderOak's software stack encompasses microsegmentation and zero-trust principles, making advanced cyber protection achievable without requiring extra hardware. This combined effort allows for precise data flow segmentation, continuous trust verification, and swift action against potential adversarial activities, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of space networks during hostile scenarios.

A Strategic Partnership for Future-Proofing Space Cybersecurity

SpiderOak’s commitment to delivering transformative cybersecurity solutions is bolstered by its strategic collaboration with Collins Aerospace. Kip Gering, CEO of SpiderOak, expressed enthusiasm for this partnership: "We are pleased to collaborate with Collins Aerospace to deliver a combined solution for advanced architectures, enabling the Department of War to achieve zero-trust adoption across mission operations in space or at the tactical edge."

Ryan Bunge, VP and GM at Collins Aerospace, emphasized the necessity of secure communications, stating, "Secure, resilient communications are needed for U.S. servicemembers and Guardians' operations. Collins' encryption technology ensures network data is protected at the tactical edge."

About the SBIR Contract

The SBIR contract awarded to SpiderOak serves as a pivotal move to energize innovation within the U.S. space industrial base, fostering partnerships between emerging companies and governmental agencies such as Space Force. This model aims to not only accelerate the pace of innovation but also successfully commercialize new technologies that can significantly enhance the security framework surrounding space missions.

About SpiderOak

SpiderOak stands as a 100% U.S.-owned software company, committed to addressing the cybersecurity challenges of modern computing. Their technologies facilitate secure interactions across various platforms while ensuring strong authority and identity verification. Notably, SpiderOak allows organizations to operate securely beyond centralized systems, reaching even the most distant tactical edges necessary for mission success. For further information about SpiderOak and its offerings, visit SpiderOak's official website.