What is it about?
This paper proposes a blockchain-based system to enhance the security of NATO's air command and control (C2) capabilities, specifically focusing on the Recognized Air Picture (RAP). The RAP is a critical component of air operations, providing a real-time understanding of the airspace and enabling effective decision-making. However, its reliance on traditional client-server architectures leaves it vulnerable to cyberattacks and manipulation. The proposed system leverages the decentralized and immutable nature of blockchain technology to address these vulnerabilities. By distributing the RAP data across a permissioned private blockchain, built on the Hyperledger Fabric platform, the system aims to achieve the following: ● Enhanced Security: Decentralization makes it significantly harder for attackers to compromise the system, as targeting a single point of failure becomes ineffective. ● Improved Data Integrity: The immutability of blockchain ensures that RAP data cannot be tampered with or altered, maintaining the accuracy and reliability of the information. ● Increased Resilience: Even if some nodes in the network fail, the system remains operational thanks to data redundancy across multiple peers. ● Controlled Data Sharing: Permissioned access control mechanisms allow NATO to manage data sharing with ally nations, granting access only to relevant portions of the RAP.
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Why is it important?
This system is crucial because a secure and reliable RAP is paramount for successful air operations. Any manipulation or disruption to the RAP can have severe consequences, potentially leading to misjudgments, miscalculations, and even the failure of an entire air campaign.
Perspectives
Beyond its direct security benefits, the proposed system offers additional perspectives: ● Reduced Human Error: The system's reliance on automated processes can minimize the risk of human error in data handling and information sharing. ● Cost-Effectiveness: While blockchain implementation requires initial investment, it can potentially reduce long-term operational costs by minimizing the need for complex cybersecurity infrastructure and centralized data management. ● Adaptability for Future Applications: The system's underlying framework can be adapted for other security-critical aspects of air operations, such as secure communication channels, logistics tracking, and weapon system authorization.
Dr. Enis Karaarslan
Mugla Sitki Kocman Universitesi
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Blockchain-Based Secure Recognized Air Picture System Proposal for NATO Air C2 Capabilities, January 2020, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-36178-5_65.
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