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E-3 Sentry encryption equipment no longer meets US security requirements, says USAF
The Air Force says the DAR-400 encryption equipment aboard its E-3G Sentry fleet no longer satisfies current National Security Agency protection requirements. General Dynamics has indicated that the system can no longer be supported or upgraded, prompting a sources-sought notice for a replacement covering mission computers, planning systems, satellite communications, and associated support equipment. The issue creates an immediate security and sustainment problem for aircraft still in service, separate from the longer-term plan to replace the E-3 with the E-7A. A replacement must remain compatible with the aircraft's aging architecture while protecting classified data for its remaining service life.