Analysis of the Use of Module Lattice Key-Encapsulation Mechanism in Delay Tolerant Networks: A Survey

Abstract

Cryptography plays a fundamental role in information security, being directly related to maintaining important
properties such as confidentiality and integrity. Many of the algorithms that form the basis of cryptography are based on
mathematically difficult computational problems, such as prime number factorization and discrete logarithm. However, the
use of quantum computing algorithms poses a threat to some of these cryptographic systems, making communication
systems and protocols that use them vulnerable. One example is Delay-Tolerant Networks (DTNs), which have high
applicability in space systems and military contexts, but present challenging characteristics for secure implementation. One
initiative to combat this threat is the development of algorithms resistant to quantum attacks, collectively known as postquantum
cryptography. These algorithms are based on other mathematical classes that do not have a known optimized
solution for quantum or classical computers, but, on the other hand, present greater computational, storage, and data
transmission demands. Due to these characteristics, their use must be evaluated according to the context, considering the
degree of security required in conjunction with processing, memory, and routing limitations. Thus, this work aimed to
conduct a survey of the main characteristics and challenges of cryptographic systems to counter quantum cryptanalysis,
paying special attention to the post-quantum algorithm Module-Lattice Key-Encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM), as well as
its vulnerabilities to hardware-level implementation attacks and spaceborne radiation environments. Furthermore, the main
architectural characteristics of DTNs were presented, and security aspects and challenges described in the Bundle Protocol
Security (BPSec)—specifically regarding the amplification of message-flooding vulnerabilities under expanded post-quantum
payloads—were addressed. Finally, suggestions for future work were presented based on opportunities identified
throughout the study.