Changing the secure avionics perspective from components to missions

The authors discuss how current secure avionics design procedures affect mission success. The views expressed are drawn from experiences with the operational evaluation of the DOD secure communications and analysis of C-17 secure communications operation. The following concepts are addressed: integrated hardware, integrated operator interfaces, single-point keying, automated mission loading, and integrated mission development support. It is concluded that the current `add as you go´ approach to design can no longer ensure successful mission competition. It is noted that in addition to integrated hardware, integrated hardware operator interfaces and integrated mission development support are necessary to reduce pre-flight and in-flight tasking