RTX's BBN Technologies Launches Open-Source Toolkit for Covert Communication Networks

Severity: Low (Score: 26.9)

Sources: Rtx, Prnewswire

Summary

On April 1, 2026, RTX's BBN Technologies unveiled Maude-HCS, an open-source toolkit designed for cyber defense teams to model, test, and validate covert communication networks. Funded by DARPA under the PWND2 program, Maude-HCS is available on GitHub and aims to enhance the performance and privacy guarantees of hidden communication systems. These systems are crucial for maintaining internet freedom and national security, especially for journalists and military personnel operating in high-risk environments. The toolkit allows users to validate designs before deployment, ensuring that covert channels remain undetectable. This innovative solution is expected to transform how the national security community approaches covert communications. BBN Technologies has a long history of advancing technology for national security, with a focus on innovative solutions. The release of Maude-HCS is part of a broader effort to improve cybersecurity measures in sensitive communications. Key Points: • RTX's BBN Technologies launched Maude-HCS, an open-source toolkit for covert communication. • The toolkit is funded by DARPA and aims to enhance the validation of hidden communication networks. • Maude-HCS is available on GitHub and is expected to significantly impact national security communication strategies.

Key Entities

• Maude-HCS (tool)