AN/PRC-160 and AN/PRC-163 Radio Operations and Antenna Theory Practice Test

The CIK timer is a security-related setting that governs how long a cryptographic function or key stays in effect before a rekey or refresh is required. Controlling this timing is part of managing crypto material and keeping the network synchronized, so it must be handled by someone with the authority to make security policy changes.

That authority rests with the supervisor. Supervisors have the training and oversight responsibility to adjust crypto-related parameters, log changes, and ensure changes follow the operating procedures. Operators and users perform routine radio operation and communications but do not have permission to modify key-management settings. The device itself enforces default policies, but final changes to crypto timing are reserved for the supervisor to maintain security integrity.