Cybersecurity risks of RFID for mines and unexploded ordnance

Projectiles (shells, missiles), bombs and mines are designed to kill the enemy and destroy his defenses. However, when such devices do not explode and remain live, they have the potential of killing friendly troops and civilians. Researchers have demonstrated that RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags, attached to UXO, can be detected from safer distances and thereby avoid inadvertent detonation. However, the use of RFID systems raises a number of serious cybersecurity issues. In this paper, we examine the usual cybersecurity concerns surrounding the commercial use of RFID tags and extend the review to encompass security and safety requirements and risks specifically related to unexploded mines and ordnance. By taking a broad perspective, the author comes up with a comprehensive set of security and safety requirements as part of the justification of time, cost and effort required to make such systems work.