Reducing Counterfeit Risk Through the Use of DoD Trusted Suppliers

David Chesebrough [Defined Business Solutions]

Abstract: 

One key aspect of managing the risk of counterfeit microelectronic parts is using a demonstrated and verified chain of custody that provides traceability and provenance for critical components.

Chain of custody systems have become an indispensable element of many industries, such as food safety, agriculture, forestry, aquaculture or fisheries, manufacturing, construction, and mineral mining. Chain of custody is one of the main features of the DoD Trusted Supplier program managed by the Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA).

Trust is established by assessing the integrity of the people and processes used to design, generate, manufacture, test, and distribute national security-critical microelectronics. Trusted Suppliers assure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the products they provide through their agreements with DMEA. Accreditation requires obtaining facility and personnel security clearances, thus allowing Trusted Suppliers to work on classified programs.

Presently, DMEA is working with its accredited suppliers to improve the program and increase its value to the defense and critical infrastructure sectors. Working teams are assessing four areas to enhance the Trusted Supplier program: trust value proposition, trusted FPGAs, end-to-end trust, and trusted third-party intellectual property.

Using a Trusted Supplier for both classified and unclassified integrated circuits (ICs) can prevent intentional or unintentional modification or tampering of the ICs, ensure that there will not be any reasonable threats related to disruption in supply, and protect the ICs from unauthorized attempts in reverse engineering, the exposure of functionality, or the evaluation of possible vulnerabilities.

This session is proposed to be a brief introduction addressing how the use of Trusted Suppliers in acquisition programs can mitigate the risk associated with counterfeit microelectronics, followed by a panel discussion with representatives from DMEA Trusted Suppliers.

Biography: 

David Chesebrough has spent over 40 years working across various industries, focusing on helping organizations understand how technology can help them achieve their goals in today's ever-changing world. Currently, he's with Defined Business Solutions, where he's tackling challenges in Defense microelectronics, particularly in cybersecurity, resilient supply chains, and hardware assurance.

Before his current role, David managed the operations of all 29 Divisions of NDIA, an association serving the Defense Community. His extensive experience in Defense issues, coupled with his network of industry and government connections, allows him to bring people together effectively.

David's career spans multiple positions, including Vice President roles at NDIA, where he coordinated operations and contributed to strategic initiatives. He also led the Association for Enterprise Information, guiding it through shifts in focus towards national security and dynamic information systems.

Prior to that, he held various management and consulting positions in IT and electronic commerce, demonstrating a diverse skill set and adaptability. David's problem-solving approach and ability to build lasting relationships have played an important role throughout his career, enabling him to make meaningful contributions across different sectors and roles.

Dr. Diganta Das

For more information or questions regarding the technical program (including Professional Development Courses), contact the Conference Chair, Dr. Diganta Das

Kristin Nafstad

For more information or questions regarding event logistics, exhibitions, and sponsorship, contact Kristin Nafstad.