US military gets secure smartphone

Finally, there's a phone plan that allows you to switch from the US government's Secret Internet Protocol Router Network to the unclassified Internet Protocol Router Network with a single keystroke.

The US National Security Agency has authorised military and government personnel to order General Dynamics' Sectera Edge secure, wireless smartphones, which will not only allow them to make secure calls but also to e-mail and Web browse in either classified or unclassified mode.

The phones will still operate using the existing GSM, CDMA and commercial Wi-Fi networks.

Although it looks like a regular phone, the company says the Sectera Edge is designed to rugged military spec, allowing for the wear and tear of both the office and "war fighters completing a tactical mission".

And it comes with a personal organiser that includes contacts, calendar, tasks, alarms and notes so security personnel don't forget loved ones' birthdays in the midst of a covert operation.

Deliveries are scheduled for later this year, with sales estimated as high as US$300 million over the next five years, according to the company.

The Sectera Edge is part of the NSA's Secure Mobile Environment Portable Electronic Device program, but there are civilian models available.

CNET News.com's Mark Rutherford reported from San Francisco.

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Talkback 1 comments

    Oz follows suit Anonymous -- 18/10/07

    Australia has approved the use of these phones for upto Top Secret data as well.

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