Mission-Critical Defense Secured: Building Trust with Embedded Linux Security

A global defense electronics innovator partnered with Lynx to enhance the security of its embedded Linux systems. Through advanced technologies like secure boot, OS hardening, and encrypted storage, Lynx delivered a scalable, reliable platform that protects sensitive data and ensures compliance in high-stakes environments.

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Strengthening Security in the Face of Increasing Threats

In today’s defense landscape, embedded systems are at the heart of mission-critical operations, where even minor vulnerabilities can have catastrophic consequences. Facing growing cybersecurity risks, this defense leader sought a robust solution to secure its embedded Linux platforms. Lynx delivered advanced security features and expert guidance, enabling the organization to protect its sensitive systems and ensure long-term compliance.

 

About the Client: Pioneering Automotive Innovation

  • Industry: Automotive Manufacturing
  • Scope: Global operations spanning Europe and the United States
  • Focus: Autonomous material handling devices leveraging IoT for efficiency and automation

Challenge

Overcoming Gaps in Expertise and Technology

This defense manufacturer faced complex challenges as it worked to secure its systems for critical applications:

  • End-to-End Protection: Establishing a secure boot process and a reliable chain of trust from the bootloader to the root file system.
  • Data Security: Safeguarding sensitive data through encrypted storage and robust key management.
  • Knowledge Gap: Addressing limited in-house expertise to implement and maintain advanced security measures effectively.
  • Tight Timelines: Achieving these objectives within strict project deadlines for ongoing and future deployments.

In a high-stakes industry, failure to address these challenges could lead to compliance risks, data breaches, and compromised mission integrity.

Solution

Comprehensive Security Tailored for Defense

To address these challenges, Lynx implemented a layered approach to security, blending cutting-edge technologies with hands-on enablement:

  • Secure Boot and Chain of Trust:
    Lynx designed and implemented a secure boot process utilizing Arm TrustZone, establishing a chain of trust extending to the root file system. This ensured system integrity and prevented unauthorized access.
  • Data Encryption and Key Management:
    Encrypted storage was configured to protect sensitive information, and advanced key management was deployed using CAAM and OP-TEE, preventing unauthorized replication and ensuring data integrity.
  • OS Hardening:
    Lynx minimized attack surfaces by removing unnecessary software packages, limiting root access, and enforcing strict access protocols, all tailored to the unique needs of defense systems.
  • Knowledge Transfer and Enablement:
    The client’s team received tailored training on security principles, empowering them to independently maintain and scale security features across their product portfolio.

This integrated approach ensured that the organization’s defense systems were secure, scalable, and ready for evolving threats.

Results

Transforming Security for Mission Success

The results of Lynx’s partnership with this defense leader were transformative:

  • End-to-End System Integrity:
    Secure boot and a robust chain of trust ensured 100% protection from the bootloader to the root file system.
  • Advanced Data Security:
    Sensitive information and intellectual property were safeguarded with encrypted partitions and secure key management.
  • Operational Hardening:
    System vulnerabilities were drastically reduced by enforcing OS hardening techniques, limiting unnecessary software, and securing access protocols.
  • Team Enablement:
    With Lynx’s training and expertise, the organization’s team was equipped to manage and scale these security solutions across its platforms independently.
  • Scalability and Compliance:
    The implemented solutions were flexible enough to meet the demands of future projects while maintaining compliance with industry and government standards.

Secure the Systems That Protect the Mission

Discover how Lynx can help safeguard your embedded systems with scalable security solutions built for mission-critical applications.