8 key aspects of military messaging for secure communication

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4. Navigating difficult terrain

Military operations often take place in environments where traditional communication systems fail. 

Utilizing satellite communications (SATCOM) allows forces to maintain connectivity in remote or rugged terrains, exemplified by operations in mountainous regions, where line-of-sight communications are challenging but critical for mission success.

5. Ground operations

Effective communication is the backbone of ground operations, enabling coordination and strategic decision-making.

For example, during joint operations, interoperable communication systems allow units from different branches or nations to share real-time intelligence and status reports, enhancing operational efficiency and tactical advantage on the battlefield.

6. High latency network

High latency networks refer to communication systems with a significant delay between the transmission and receipt of data. This poses significant challenges in military communications, particularly in drone operations or satellite communications.

Drones rely on near-real-time data transmission to execute commands accurately and safely. At the same time, satellite communications are essential for global military operations, including navigation, intelligence gathering, and communication in remote or austere environments.

However, overcoming this is possible through implementing robust, secure communication protocols designed to handle delays. This ensures that even with high latency, critical commands and surveillance data are transmitted effectively, supporting operations in remote or contested environments.

Key features to look for in military messaging solutions

Selecting the most secure messaging solution is crucial for military's operational security and effectiveness, requiring features that ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of communications. These include:

1. Air gapping

Air gapping refers to isolating a computer or network from the internet and other unsecured networks, effectively creating a barrier against cyber threats.

An example is the use of air-gapped networks in secure facilities, where mission-critical systems are kept entirely offline to prevent espionage and cyber attacks. This ensures that sensitive communications and data remain inaccessible from external networks.

2. E2E encryption

End-to-end encryption (E2E encryption) is a method of securing digital communication to prevent unauthorized access by encrypting the data at its origin and decrypting it only at its destination.

In essence, it ensures that the content of the communication, such as messages, calls, or files, is transformed into a coded message at the sender's device and remains encrypted as it travels across any network or intermediary servers. This coded message can only be decrypted and read by the intended recipient's device.

For instance, military-grade messaging apps employ E2E encryption protocols like the Signal Protocol, ensuring that messages are encrypted on the sender's device and only decrypted on the recipient's device, making it impossible for intermediaries to access the content, even if the communication is intercepted.

3. Customizability

Customizability in military chat solutions allows for adaptation to specific operational requirements and integration with existing systems.

For instance, the development of customized messaging apps tailored for naval fleets, incorporating features like secure file sharing, real-time location tracking, and integration with shipborne communication systems, enhances coordination and response capabilities.

4. On-prem deployment

On-premises deployment means hosting the messaging service within the organization's data centers rather than in the cloud. This allows complete control over the infrastructure and data, which is crucial for operations requiring the highest security levels.

For example, the U.S. military might deploy a messaging system on-premises to ensure that sensitive operational data remains within its secure facilities, protected by physical and cyber defenses.

Learn more about on-prem:

• How do cloud and on-prem compare security-wise?
• Why governmental agencies should always deploy on-premise
• 10 best on-premise chat solutions

5. Conversation history

Managing conversation history is critical for operational review and accountability. Military messaging solutions often feature secure storage and retrieval of conversation histories, with strict access controls and auditing capabilities.

An example includes a command center's ability to review past communications during debriefings or investigations. It ensures that all messages are timestamped, encrypted, and stored securely, with access limited to authorized personnel only, thus maintaining a clear and accountable record of communications.

6. Secure integrations to expand collaboration

Integrating secure, military-grade video conferencing and whiteboard solutions enables teams to collaborate more effectively, even in classified environments.

For example, secure video solutions allow for real-time strategy sessions between commanders in different locations, with encryption ensuring that discussions remain confidential.

Similarly, integrating secure whiteboard solutions facilitates joint operational planning, with all data encrypted and accessible only to authorized personnel, thus expanding collaboration while safeguarding sensitive information.

7. LDAP

Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) integration is key for managing user identities and access within secure messaging systems. 

LDAP allows for centralizing user authentication processes, making it easier to control access to the messaging system based on each user's credentials and security clearance.

For instance, a military organization might use LDAP to enable personnel to log in to the messaging system using their existing directory credentials, streamlining access management and ensuring that only authorized individuals can communicate through the platform.

8. Multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that access to the military messaging system is protected against unauthorized use.

MFA significantly reduces the risk of compromised communications by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access, such as a password and a biometric verification or a one-time code sent to a mobile device.

An example of this is the implementation of MFA for access to communication networks in field operations, where verifying the identity of users is critical to maintaining operational security and integrity.

Secure military communication with Rocket.Chat

Rocket.Chat is built to empower mission critical collaboration at every forefront.

Made with Defense and Military organizations in mind, Rocket.Chat allows to improve operational efficiency and safeguard sensitive information.

Reach out to our team to learn how you can use Rocket.Chat's comprehensive collaboration platform to securely communicate with mission-critical partners.