The Integrated Tactical Data Network (ITDN): multi-security level tactical/strategic connectivity through existing packet switching technology

The authors discuss the ITDN demonstration, a cooperative effort of the US Dept. of Defense command, control, communications, and intelligence (C³I) community to achieve a data communications architecture capable of supporting data information transfer requirements at many security levels. The initial assessment drawn from the demonstration is that nondevelopmental packet switching technology can be used to interconnect strategic data communications networks and tactical networks. Tactical-to-strategic interoperability via use of the X.25 protocol was demonstrated by several user systems. The BLACKER COMSEC system was used to integrate users operating at different security levels so that they could use a common area communications network for transmission, yet still maintain isolation of user communities of interest (operating at the same security level) for those not authorized to operate at that specific security level