Cybersecurity Challenges of Multi-Domain Traffic Management and Aerospace Cyber-Physical Systems

The convergence of traditional Air Traffic Management (ATM) and Space Traffic Management (STM) assumes critical importance in the growing commercial space transportation industry, leading to the emergence of the Multidomain Traffic Management (MDTM) concept. The integration pertains to the simultaneous operation of manned and unmanned vehicles, requiring increased levels of automation in decision-making to develop confidence and improve collaboration between humans and autonomous systems. The increasing reliance on Aerospace Cyber-Physical Systems (ACPS), specifically for applications involving safety-critical functions, presents a noteworthy cybersecurity problem that is frequently undervalued. The designs of ACPS are intricate as they involve the interconnection of communication, control, and computing processes while also smoothly integrating both hardware and software components. Traditional physical dangers can manifest in the virtual environment, while cyber threats can extend into the actual world. The increasing dependence of civilisation on essential infrastructure for economic progress, public safety, and national security makes it imperative to prioritise protection against cyberattacks in order to guarantee continued support for critical activities. The investigation commences by addressing the escalating dependence on ACPS services in the context of safety-of-life and mission-critical applications. The subsequent discussion emphasises the cybersecurity issues presented by MDTM systems, encompassing their susceptibility to intrusions and the intricate nature of ACPS frameworks.