NSA certifies Harris crypto module

WASHINGTON — The National Security Agency has certified a programmable cryptographic module developed by Harris Corp.

Harris RF Communications Division (Rochester, N.Y.) said its Sierra II crypto module was certified by NSA (Fort Meade, Md.) for securing government voice and data traffic up to the “top secret” classification.

The device is designed to be embedded in voice and data equipment requiring encryption of classified information prior to transmission or storage. It also includes key-management functions.

Harris said the module is intended for applications requiring small, low-power encryption capabilties, including portable phones. The company also said the device could be used on military sensors, unmanned aerial vehicles and for homeland security applications.