The second is the arrival of the Information Age, where use of cryptography is now in high demand for privacy and commercial purposes, with the result that cryptology has become a more open science and attracts great interest in Academia and among vendors of security products. Practitioners of cryptology are now well-funded and are working at the leading edge of technology. The tools of trade of the modern cryptologist are electronic or software-based encypherment systems, the most powerful of modern computer systems, and deep mathematical theory. In Defence, we are continually reminded of the paramount importance of information and its dissemination to support both a well-informed and effective Defence force and our national economy. This has increased our dependence on information systems and consequently exposes us to greater risk of attack on these systems by an adversary.
Cryptography is the last line of defence against such attack.
If we have inferior cryptographic technology, then we would be subject to even more devastating effects than those suffered by the Germans and Japanese during the war. It is clear that the maintenance of a first class capability in the very advanced science of cryptology is critical to our national security. DSTO is part of the Department of Defence. It gives professional, impartial and informed advice on science and technology best suited to Australia's defence and security needs.