She is the senior HF engineer in the center's development and implementation division. Another related project entails applying the National Security Agency's Fortezza encryption card capability to commercial wireless e-mail service. Wireless modems using the cards can send and receive secure e-mail over a variety of commercial wireless transport layer services, she explains. Smith points out that the DISA center in general is focusing on wireless communications techniques for mobile users over both terrestrial and satellite links. Wireless services run the gamut and involve some developmental activity, but for the most part, Smith says, they encompass integration of commercial hardware and software.
Some modification is necessary, however, to meet military requirements.
He cites the application of the Fortezza card to provide communications security for mobile wireless users over commercial systems. This capability already has been proven, with e-mail as one of the principal applications. Mobility is a Defense Department requirement, and it is natural to make e-mail available to the warrior mobile user or to the general work force. Aside from security, another area of the center's interest is in frequency management, which includes concerns of spectrum interference, whether mutual or from jammers. Overseas, some military frequencies are available, but international and bilateral agreements will be necessary to use certain required frequencies.