New Electronic Assemblies for US DoD Cryptographic Program

Sypris Electronics, LLC has received a follow-on award from a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) prime contractor to manufacture and test embedded circuit card assemblies that will perform certain cryptographic functions for the Army Key Management System (AKMS). Production is expected to begin the year.

The AKMS is a fielded system that consists of three subsystems: Local Communications Security Management Software (LCMS), Automated Communications Engineering Software (ACES) and the simple key load device. 

Under the umbrella of the nation’s Electronic Key Management System, the AKMS provides tactical units and sustaining bases with an organic key generation capability and an efficient secure electronic key distribution means.

The LCMS workstation provides automated key generation, distribution and communications security accounting. The ACES, which is the frequency management portion of AKMS, has been designated by the Military Communications Electronics Board as the joint standard for use by all services in development of frequency management and cryptographic net planning and signal operation instructions generation.

Sypris’ embedded circuit card assemblies will perform the cryptographic functions for the ruggedized, portable, hand-held simple key load device that will be used to securely receive, store and transfer data between compatible cryptographic and communications equipment. The device incorporates features that provide for the streamlined management of communications security key, electronic protection data and signal operation instructions.

“We are pleased to be a long-term partner on this important secure communications program that leverages our core competencies in cyber security solutions,” said Mark R. Kane, Vice President & General Manager of Sypris Electronics. “This is a significant program for our country and we are pleased to have this opportunity to continue our close, long-standing relationship with this customer.”