Security of Digital Transmissions for Aerospace IP

I want to thank Richard for suggesting this topic. He's clearly an expert on the topic.

The use of the RF spectrum is critical during launch and recovery operations. For those interested in the nuts and bolts of the requirements from a regulatory point of view, take a look at 14 CFR 417. The requirements for reliable voice communications, telemetry, and vehicle tracking in this and other 14 CFR 4XX regulations are derrived from both direct and implied tasks. Therefore, the need for reliability and function across your communications architecture is vital.

Richard shared with me recently an investigation by Sandia National Laboratories codenamed Titan Rain..."thought to rank among the most pervasive cyberespoinage threats that U.S. computer networks have ever faced." (Thornburgh, Aug 29, 2005). Here's the link to the Time Magazine article:
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/printout/0,8816,1098961,00.html
...and the follow-on story from NetworkWorld...
http://www.networkworld.com/newsletters/sec/2005/1107sec2.html

Here are some additional sources to get the discussion going...

This is a great primer on the subject: Security Threats Against Space Missions
by the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems, CCSDS 350.1-G-1, Oct 2006
http://public.ccsds.org/publications/archive/350x1g1.pdf

Space Mission Communications Security
http://sunset.usc.edu/gsaw/gsaw2001/SESSION9/Shave.pdf

Radio Frequency and Modulation Systems--Part 1: Earth Stations and Spacecraft
CCSDS 401.0-P-18.1
http://public.ccsds.org/sites/cwe/rids/Lists/CCSDS4010P181/Attachme...

Here's a bit of professional security insight dealing with communications and command-and-control architectures: most industrial command facilities are designed for normal operations...mostly inbound communications, not so much outbound communications. However, if a launch or recovery incident or accident occurs, you can plan on needed inbound and outbound lines of communication to double (as a very conservative estimate). The same applies to frequency management for RF communications. So in developing your infrastructure plans, consider the number of lines and frequencies needed for contingencies and emergencies.

Okay, enough from me on this for now. What do you all think about this?