D -- Telecommunications -- NIST FIPS-197 AES in HF Systems/Platforms

This is a request for information (RFI); no solicitation document exists. The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) published Federal Information Processing Standard 197 (FIPS-197) specifying the new Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) Algorithm. This standard specifies that all sensitive but unclassified information will use NIST certified AES products for Sensitive But Unclassified (SBU) communications. As a result of this publication, NIST withdrew FIPS-46-3 Data Encryption Standard (DES) on May 19, 2005, and has encouraged all federal agencies to transition to the AES algorithm by May 2007. While most agencies have started the transition from DES in numerous communications platforms and systems, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and other government agencies currently are unable to complete transition planning strategies for the High Frequency (HF) communications platforms due to the non-availability of a suitable product. DHS is seeking information to identify potential vendors and the availability of equipment capable of providing HF capabilities with AES encryption. Specifically, the (DHS) Wireless Management Office (WMO) is seeking information concerning NIST FIPS-197 compliant AES capability in existing HF systems and platforms. The objective of this RFI is to assist the government in defining a cost effective and operationally efficient plan to transition from the current DES to AES in HF equipment that is operated in fixed infrastructure, mobile platforms, airborn platforms and water vessels. The following information is desired concerning equipment: availability; capability; compatibility (backwards compatible); form, fit and function (i.e. size, mounting, panel, display); and maintenance and service support. Respondents should provide information that supports the existence or development of a NIST Certified AES unit, in particular, that provides the following Type III encryption requirements: provide encryption using the FIPS?197 AES; provide both private and clear voice communications; storage capability of at least eight (8) private keys; capable of generating a public key (two units generate a unique usable key); provide 2400 and 1200 Baud Mixed-Excitation Linear Predictive (MELP) speech compression algorithm with less than 1 second delay; capable of Over-the-Air-Rekeying (OTAR); certified to operate on airborne platforms; capability to operate on various marine and mobile platforms; operationally compatible with Rockwell-Collins HF systems, MICOM HF systems, and CODAN HF systems; provide data encryption for serial data up to at least 4800 baud; key selection display; compatibility of display with use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG). Respondents are requested to submit information electronically to john.ziu@dhs.gov or via mail to the following address: Department of Homeland Security, Office of Procurement Operations (ITAC), Attn: John Ziu, 245 Murray Drive, Building 410, Washington, DC 20528.