How are encryption and secure communications addressed within CSOSS sequences?

• A. Use open channels.
• B. Require secure channels for command and data; crypto equipment and keys authenticated and operational.
• C. Ignore encryption for less overhead.
• D. Use only during wartime.

Answer: (B)

Securing command and data transmissions is central to CSOSS sequences. The best approach is to require secure channels for command and data, with crypto equipment and keys authenticated and operational. This ensures that instructions and status information are confidential and tamper-proof, and that only trusted devices and valid keys participate in the network. Open channels would expose sensitive information and allow spoofing; ignoring encryption introduces risk and overhead is not a valid trade-off; using encryption only during wartime leaves critical communications unprotected during other times.