Today’s cyber landscape presents increasingly complex threats. To address these challenges, Persistent Systems integrates the highest level of security into its Wave Relay® mobile ad hoc network (MANET), ensuring seamless and secure communications for warfighters.

As a company committed to empowering the operator, we have designed our security architecture to be both highly secure and easy to deploy. To simplify the process, all security protocols are embedded into the back end of our technology, minimizing user configuration while maximizing protection.

The Wave Relay MANET employs multiple layers of encryption and automated security protocols that adhere to the highest government standards. As a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technology, our networking devices are National Security Agency (NSA) approved and support FIPS 140-3 Level 2 encryption standards.

This article will explore why the Wave Relay MANET is not classified as a Type 1 device, provide an in-depth look at our security measures, and explain how these features enhance operational effectiveness.

Why are Wave Relay® Networking Devices not Type 1?

Type 1 devices are NSA-certified solutions designed to encrypt classified U.S. Government data, offering protection against physical and cyberattacks. These devices must be developed in collaboration with the U.S. government and are restricted to federally approved applications. Due to strict regulations, Type 1 devices cannot be sold to non-government entities or foreign forces.

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Beyond procurement restrictions, Type 1 devices have additional operational limitations:

  • They require strict handling procedures, meaning an operator must always be present. If lost, severe consequences follow.
  • They adhere to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), restricting their use by allied foreign forces.
  • They often require separate radios for communication between U.S. and allied forces, increasing complexity.

To best serve warfighters, our technology must remain interoperable with allied forces, support remote operations, and be quickly accessible. As a result, we focus on obtaining security certifications for commercial solutions to ensure robust protection.

Persistent Systems’ Security Measures

Persistent’s networking solutions adhere to the highest security standards, including:

Our security journey began with earlier-generation products like the MPU3, the MPU4, and the Quad Radio Router, which were FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated. In 2018, our MPU5 and Embedded Module achieved the same validation. In 2024, we introduced firmware version 19.7.4 to support FIPS 140-3 Level 2 encryption across all future firmware updates. This ensures continuous compliance without compromising FIPS accreditation.

Additionally, third-party organizations such as Blue UAS, Dark Wolf Solutions, and DEVCOM have rigorously assessed our products for electronic warfare (EW) and cyber hygiene. These assessments confirm that our technology effectively mitigates cyber threats, ensuring operator safety.

Achieving NSA-approved status required a dedicated team of security engineers focused on advancing our technological capabilities. As a result, we deliver highly secure, battle-proven networking solutions trusted by military and defense professionals worldwide.

What does our security posture provide for the user?

By embedding complex security measures into the back end of our technology, we reduce operator burden and enhance mission success. Key advantages of our commercial security model include:

  • Interoperability with Allied Forces – U.S. and coalition partners can operate on a unified network, improving joint operations.
  • Reliable, Secure Data Transfer – Wave Relay MANET integrates seamlessly into UGVs, UAVs, sensors, cameras, or other systems, ensuring encrypted data transfer.
  • Faster Deployment—As a non-ITAR product, our technology is free from export restrictions, allowing for rapid global delivery.
  • Reduced Handling Restrictions—Unlike Type 1 devices, our technology does not require constant operator presence, reducing logistical constraints.
  • Advanced Dual-layer encryption—the PT5 module enhances security by protecting data while blending with host-nation cellular networks when used with Cloud Relay and MPU5s.
  • Certified manufacturing and supply chain security. Our ISO 19011, NIST 800 171, CMMC, and DFAR 212.7002 certifications ensure compliance with stringent security standards.

Our mission is to empower warfighters with a secure, reliable, and rapidly deployable networking solution. By adhering to standards-based security measures, we provide operators with the information they need to make informed decisions in real-time and return home safely.

The Wave Relay MANET and Cloud Relay technology deliver advanced security and operational simplicity, enabling warfighters to achieve network dominance in contested environments.

 

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