Analyzing the Security of Satellite-Based Air Traffic Control Systems

Explore a comprehensive security analysis of satellite-based air traffic control systems in this DEF CON 32 conference presentation. Delve into the vulnerabilities of Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Contract (ADS-C), a critical aviation datalink application used for monitoring aircraft in remote regions. Learn about the first-ever investigation into ADS-C's security framework, including its history, impact, and technical specifications. Discover how software-defined radio receivers were used to analyze over 120,000 real-world ADS-C messages and understand the implementation of an ADS-C transmitter capable of generating arbitrary messages. Examine various protocol weaknesses, from passive aircraft tracking to active position manipulation through downlink and uplink attacks. Gain insights into the relationship between satellite-based ADS-B receivers and ADS-C, while considering potential countermeasures to address these security vulnerabilities in modern air traffic control systems.