
Aircraft system vulnerabilities
Modern aircraft rely on networks connecting flight management systems, engine controls and passenger services. Unauthorised access during maintenance or ground connections can create serious safety risks.
Aerospace cybersecurity protects £67 billion in UK aviation industry assets from sophisticated cyber threats. Modern aircraft contain over 15 million lines of code, creating vast attack surfaces that require specialised security approaches for passenger safety and operational continuity.
The aerospace industry represents one of the most complex cybersecurity challenges, combining safety-critical flight systems with commercial operations, manufacturing processes, and ground-based infrastructure. Modern aircraft, airports, and aerospace manufacturers face unprecedented cyber risks that demand specialised security expertise and military-grade protection solutions.
Commercial aircraft integrate flight-critical systems with passenger entertainment, communications, and maintenance networks. These interconnections create potential attack vectors that could compromise both operational efficiency and passenger safety.
Aerospace manufacturing involves thousands of suppliers across multiple countries, creating extensive supply chain vulnerabilities. Components, software, and maintenance equipment from various sources can introduce security risks throughout aircraft lifecycles.
The UK’s Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure identifies aerospace as a priority sector for cyber protection:
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Modern aircraft rely on networks connecting flight management systems, engine controls and passenger services. Unauthorised access during maintenance or ground connections can create serious safety risks.
Air traffic control, baggage handling and screening systems are high-value targets. Attacks can halt operations, disrupt flights and impact millions of passengers each year.
Attackers may target production systems to steal IP or introduce defects into safety-critical components, risking product integrity and aircraft safety.
Maintenance often uses USBs for updates and diagnostics. Without secure scanning and policies, those routine steps can introduce malware into aircraft systems.
This overview highlights common aerospace vectors where removable media, production systems and operational networks intersect. Consider placing a hardened scanning kiosk and strict removable media policy at maintenance and ground support points to reduce exposure.
A major UK aircraft manufacturer prevented a sophisticated cyber attack targeting their flight control system designs by implementing comprehensive security measures including hardware-based USB scanning across all engineering and manufacturing facilities. This security investment protected intellectual property worth over £180 million whilst maintaining the operational efficiency critical for aerospace manufacturing timelines.
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Aerospace organisations face sophisticated attacks from state-sponsored groups seeking technology theft, operational disruption, or intelligence gathering. Advanced security measures provide defense against these persistent, well-resourced threats.
Aircraft designs, manufacturing processes, and proprietary technologies represent valuable targets for industrial espionage. Comprehensive security frameworks protect these critical business assets.
Multi-layered security approaches validate the integrity of components, software, and services throughout complex aerospace supply chains, preventing compromised elements from reaching safety-critical systems.
UK aerospace operators must demonstrate robust cybersecurity measures under CAA guidance, including specific requirements for protecting safety-critical systems and maintaining operational resilience.
EASA cybersecurity requirements mandate comprehensive security measures for aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and ground support equipment throughout Europe.
These international standards define cybersecurity requirements for aircraft systems, establishing specific technical requirements for threat detection and incident response in aviation environments.
The CONSOLE can be placed on a desk, which makes it convenient for any standard work environment. This USB media decontamination solution protects your critical infrastructures from cyber threats.
The TOTEM can be positionned on the floor, at the entrance of reception halls or in any public areas. This USB decontamination solution comprises a small platform to hold your hard drive during the antivirus scan.
The SATELLITE USB decontamination station can be hung on a wall. It is particularly adapted to confined spaces such as ships or meeting rooms. With 5 anti-virus and 2 anti-malware running simultaneously, the SATELLITE is able to scan and clean your USB devices and prevent cyber threats or viruses from spreading through your information system.
The MOBILE is a movable USB decontamination station. Ruggedized with the MIL-STD-810G and ATEX military standards, it is designed for environments requiring mobility. With up to 5 antivirus and 2 optional anti-malware scanners running simultaneously, it is able to scan any USB or removable devices and prevent malwares or viruses from spreading through your information system.
Protecting the UK’s government and defence data from USB-borne threats requires a dedicated, robust, and physical solution. Software alone is no longer enough. Tyrex provides the military-grade hardware, specialised expertise, and certified assurance needed to secure your organisation’s most sensitive digital assets.
Aircraft System Protection:
Specialised security solutions designed for aviation environments where safety requirements and certification standards demand the highest levels of reliability and performance. These systems protect flight-critical networks without interfering with certified avionics operations.
Manufacturing Security:
Advanced cybersecurity measures for aerospace manufacturing facilities that produce safety-critical components. These solutions protect intellectual property, maintain quality assurance processes, and prevent supply chain compromises.
Airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and maintenance providers require comprehensive security solutions that protect passenger data, flight operations, and maintenance systems whilst maintaining safety certifications.
Military aircraft, defense contractors, and aerospace research facilities need advanced cybersecurity measures that protect classified information and mission-critical capabilities.
Satellite operators, ground control facilities, and space technology manufacturers face unique cybersecurity challenges requiring specialised protection approaches.
Aerospace cybersecurity demands specialised expertise combining deep understanding of aviation safety requirements with advanced cybersecurity technologies. Protecting your aerospace operations requires proven security solutions that maintain safety certifications whilst providing robust protection against sophisticated threats.
Don't Let Cyber Threats Ground Your Operations. With cyber attacks on aerospace increasing 234% and modern aircraft containing over 15 million lines of vulnerable code, your aviation operations cannot afford reactive cybersecurity. Every day without comprehensive protection increases your exposure to catastrophic safety incidents and regulatory penalties.
Secure Your Aerospace Operations NowContact our aviation cybersecurity specialists today for a confidential security assessment designed specifically for aerospace environments. Discover how military-grade protection has already safeguarded £180 million in critical aircraft designs for a leading UK manufacturer without compromising safety certifications or operational efficiency.