AUTODIN Security

Required security protection must be extended to all classified traffic transmitted through the AUTODIN. The ASC automatically checks and compares the security classification stated in the header of the message against the authorized security level of the incoming circuit. Transmission of a message with a higher security level than authorized will result in the message being rejected by the ASC.

In addition, an automatic system-generated service will be transmitted by the ASC to the originating station. The purpose of this service is to advise the originating station of possible security compromises. Also, the ASC automatically checks and compares the security classification contained in the header of each message against the security classification of each destination. A security mismatch occurs for each destination that does not indicate a matching security level.

In the event of a security mismatch, the ASC takes the following actions:

In a single-address message, the ASC rejects the message and alarms appear at the originating terminal indicating that the message needs retransmission.

In a multiple-address message with at least one deliverable destination, the ASC accepts the message and delivers it to all valid destinations. For invalid routing indicators, an automatically generated service retransmits the message to the originating routing indicator and advises that the message needs retransmission.

In-station operating procedures should be carefully planned and rigidly enforced to prevent inadvertent transmission of classified messages to unauthorized stations or agencies. Complete security precautions and operating rules are contained in JANAP 128.

NAVAL COMMUNICATIONS PROCESSING AND ROUTING SYSTEM

The Naval Communications Processing and Routing System (NAVCOMPARS) is an automated system that serves as the interface between AUTODIN or other networks ashore and operational units of the Navy. There are five NAVCOMPARS sites: NCTAMS EASTPAC, NCTAMS WESTPAC, NCTAMS MED, NCTAMS LANT, and NAVCOMMTELSTA Stockton, California. The primary purpose of NAVCOMPARS is to provide security, speed, and systems compatibility for the Naval Telecommunications System (NTS). The NAVCOMPARS system provides the following services:

On-line communications with AUTODIN switching centers;

On-line communications with tactical and dedicated circuits;

Off-line communications interface capabilities;

Processing of JANAP 128-formatted messages;

Conversion of DD Form 173 messages to JANAP 128 format;

Conversion of modified ACP 126-formatted messages to JANAP 128 format;

Filing, retrieving, and accountability of messages;

Local delivery analysis;

Distribution assignment;

Message store-and-forward capability to fleet units;

Fleet support through broadcast management or full-period terminations and primary ship-shore circuits;

Broadcast keying and screening;

On-line communications with the Worldwide Military Command and Control System (WWMCCS); and

On-line communications with Common User Digital Information Exchange System (CUDIXS) and Remote Information Exchange Terminals (RIXTs). (CUDIXS and RIXT systems are discussed later.)

Automation of these functions and services eliminates manual processing and minimizes related delays and errors. Automation also improves originator-to-addressee delivery time and allows the timely exchange of information critical to the command and control of forces afloat.

LOCAL DIGITAL MESSAGE EXCHANGE

The Local Digital Message Exchange (LDMX) provides automatic outgoing message routing and reformatting for Navy activities ashore. It simultaneously transmits and receives messages over the AUTODIN and other remote terminal circuits. The LDMX system provides high-speed processing, system reliability, secure communications, flexibility, statistical information, and accounting data.

High-Speed Processing

The LDMX system provides high-speed communications processing. On-line to AUTODIN and other circuits, the LDMX system automatically receives, identifies, and files traffic for processing and future reference. Incoming messages are automatically arranged by precedence; then processed, edited, and printed on reproducible mats for delivery.

Outgoing traffic is entered by magnetic or paper tape. The system formats the outgoing message, creates a header, and validates the message identifiers, precedence, and classification. The LDMX system also searches system files to assign the correct routing indicator and arranges the message by precedence for automatic transmission. Operating at full capacity, the system can process up to 7,500 messages per day.

System Reliability

Message-processing reliability has been greatly improved by automatic message identification and header preparation and by system look-up files instead of manual files. The elimination of most manual functions and validation of those remaining greatly reduce misroutes and nondeliveries. The system continues to operate in either a semiautomatic or manual mode if a major component becomes inoperable.

Secure Communications

All message security fields are validated. If a mismatch is detected in the LDMX system, the message will be displayed to an inrouter or an outrouter for review and action. Depending on user requirements, video display terminal (VDT) operators may be prevented from displaying or recalling Top Secret and SPECAT messages. The purpose of this precaution is to reduce the possibility of a security violation.

Flexibility

The LDMX system eliminates most manual processing without imposing stringent limitations on the user. Tailored to meet the unique situations at each command, the LDMX can be responsive to individual command requirements and variances.

Statistical and Management Reports

A significant feature of the LDMX system is the natural accumulation of statistical information and accounting data. This provides accurate verification of the reliability and performance of the system. Message-processing data is summarized in a series of statistical analysis summaries that include the following:

A bar chart providing an hourly volume of incoming or outgoing messages;

A summary report showing the number and average length of incoming or outgoing messages, the number of messages delivered to a remote printer, and the number of classifications and precedences;

A listing of service messages sent and received;

A listing of duplicated, misrouted, and missent messages; and

A speed-of-service report, giving maximum, average, and minimum processing times (by precedence, classification, or selected originator).