Security Enhanced Maintenance Support Device (SE MSD) & Cybersecurity Improvements
NCMS Project #: 141019
Problem: U.S. Army Project Directorate of Main Battle Tank Systems (PD MBTS), of the Program Executive Office of Ground Combat Systems (PEO GCS), is developing a network connected Security Enhanced Maintenance Support Device (SE MSD) to support maintenance and condition-based maintenance (CBM) for the Abrams Family of Vehicle (FOV) Main Battle Tank platforms. Robust cybersecurity protection is essential to mitigate cybersecurity vulnerabilities to protect the SE MSD and the Abrams FOV platforms.
Benefit: CBM and data transfer that is secure supports the warfighter in providing ready tactical and ground vehicles that can support a successful mission. With the costs and wait times affiliated with new acquisitions, legacy vehicles are being called upon to perform past their expected lifespans. As part of the DoD priority of savings costs while increasing readiness, this demonstration will highlight innovative ways that support that endeavor.
Solution/Approach: The proposed solution is to provide vehicle mechanics with a secure, portable maintenance device (the SE MSD) which supports day–to–day vehicle maintenance while also enabling CBM by collecting and reporting vehicle health and repair/maintenance data to Enterprise systems for CBM analysis and actions. To protect the SE MSD from cybersecurity attacks, “Defense in Depth” security protection is being incorporated using multiple embedded security features.
Impact on Warfighter:
- Increase safety and security
- Decrease costs
- Streamline maintenance processes
- Improve warfighter readiness
DOD Participation:
- U.S. Army – Product Directorate Main Battle Tank Systems (PD MBTS)
- U.S. Army – Program Executive Office, Ground Combat Systems (PEO GCS)
- U.S. Army – Program Executive Office, Combat Support & Combat Service Support (PEO CSCSS)
Industry Participation:
- Leonardo DRS, DRS Land Electronics
- NCMS
Benefit Area(s):
- Cost savings
- Repair turn-around time
- Maintenance management improvement
- Improved readiness
- Reliability improvement
Focus Area:
- CBM+