Apple iPhone and iPad Cleared for Classified NATO Use

"Secure digital transformation is only successful if information security is considered from the beginning in the development of mobile products. Expanding on BSI's rigorous audit of iOS and iPadOS platform and device security for use in classified German information environments, we are pleased to confirm the compliance under NATO nations' assurance requirements."

"The NIAPC is NATO's official registry of vetted cybersecurity products that alliance members and its military/civil entities can use to meet critical operational security demands. NIAPC enforces rigorous entry rules for listed security items: products typically must originate from NATO countries, carry approved certifications, obtain national authority sign-off, and demonstrate market-fit for NATO."

"Their presence in the NIAPC enables iPhones and iPads to be used with classified information without requiring special software or settings. The listing specifies that the native Mail, Calendar, and Contacts apps for iOS and iPadOS provide secure access to data."

Apple's iPhone and iPad have received approval from NATO to handle classified information, marking the first time consumer devices achieved this security level. The devices were added to NATO's Information Assurance Product Catalogue (NIAPC), which registers vetted cybersecurity products for alliance members. The approval enables native Mail, Calendar, and Contacts apps to securely access classified data without requiring special software or additional settings. The certification followed rigorous testing by Germany's Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), which evaluated the devices against NATO security requirements. NIAPC maintains strict entry criteria requiring products to originate from NATO countries, obtain national authority approval, and demonstrate operational fit for the alliance.

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