Gjøvik University College Cryptology 1

Gjøvik University College

Cryptology 1

The Hagelin M-209 cipher machine

John-André Bjørkhaug
2013.10.01

The Hagelin M-209 cipher machine

Abstract
During WW2 cipher machines were extensively used, both by the allied and axis nations. Most famous is the German Enigma machine. The allied used multiple machines, but the Swedish M-209 stood out. The fully mechanical, and impressive complex machinery, was produced in the amazingly amount of 140000 during WW2, and used by multiple allied nations. This paper will first give a short introduction to cryptographic rotor machines, describe the history of Boris Hagelins cipher machines, then discuss details of the M-209s, its mechanical properties, how its ciphering works, how to use it, and cryptanalysis work done on it.

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The Hagelin M-209 cipher machine