Protecting classified data transit within mobile ad-hoc networks (MANET) is a challenge. Since
MANET radios are mobile, they can constantly change their connectivity with each other. With
this change in connectivity comes a commensurate change in security associations and the need
to rapidly adapt the cryptographic solution. In addition, standard encryption approaches for
classified data force the radio to be a classified device because keys are entered into the radio
and retained there. MANET radios are often taken far from protected bases or used in
unattended deployments and hence it is a liability for a MANET radio be a classified device.