HENSOLDT launches its new QRTK77 cryptographic computer at Paris Air Show 2025

The international HENSOLDT group is unveiling its new IFF Mode 5 QRTK77 cryptographic module at Paris Air Show 2025.

In a context of geopolitical uncertainty and changing priorities for the US administration priorities, and at a time when European leaders are talking about the need to strengthen the sovereignty of the European defence industry, the French subsidiary of the international HENSOLDT group is strengthening its range of IFF (Friend or Foe) equipment with the launch of a new mode 5 cryptographic computer, the QRTK77, unveiled this Monday at the Paris Air Show.

Like the entire range of HENSOLDT France IFF products, this latest model complies with STANAG 4193 Ed. 3, guaranteeing interoperability within NATO and with its allies. The electrical and mechanical interfaces comply with DoD AIMS 04-900 option B. Designed to work with the American-format transponders, interrogators and CITs that equip many European and international platforms, the QRTK77 features a series of innovative features guaranteeing operational and maintenance simplicity.

Capable of storing the equivalent of 3 months of encryption keys, the QRTK77 features a standby mode that extends the platform's autonomy, and a battery designed to keep the time of the day (TOD) for up to ten days - almost three times longer than other models currently on the market.

With no timer, this battery has the added advantage of being replaceable without a time limit, which means that operators run no risk of blocking the system if the manipulation takes longer than expected. What's more, the QRTK77 incorporates a removable, external CIK (Crypto Ignition Key), making the system inoperable once removed and reinforcing the security and ease of use of the solution in theatres of operation.

The QRTK77, made in France and ITAR-free, is compatible with a wide range of IFF subsystems, for all types of platforms: naval vessels, combat aircraft, ground radar stations, air defence systems, etc.

“HENSOLDT France SAS, a subsidiary of the HENSOLDT group, is currently the only European player to have the complete IFF chain (cryptographic calculators and hosts) and the only supplier of mode 5 cryptographic modules in France. With our recognised expertise in embedded cybersecurity and the design of high-security systems, we are very proud to have developed this innovative new model, which demonstrates the technical excellence of our engineers," explains Philippe Guibourg, President of HENSOLDT France SAS. "At a time when the issue of protecting national sovereignty is being revived by current conflicts, we are delighted to announce that this model can be made available very quickly. We are ready to meet the growing needs of our customers, so that we can play our part in rearming Europe.”