What designation identifies operational keying material requiring special handling?

The designation that identifies operational keying material requiring special handling is referred to as "Crypto." This term encompasses materials that are essential for securing communications and protecting sensitive information. Such keying material, which includes encryption keys and other cryptographic elements, is often subject to strict safeguarding protocols and specific handling procedures to prevent unauthorized access and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the information.

In intelligence and military operations, the management of cryptographic keying material is critical because any compromise of this material could lead to significant security breaches, loss of sensitive data, and impaired operations. Therefore, personnel responsible for handling such materials must be trained and adhere to established protocols that govern their usage and protection.

Other designations like "Cosmic," "Special," and "Communications intelligence" pertain to different classifications or categories of information but do not specifically address the operational keying material that requires the stringent handling associated with cryptography. "Cosmic" typically refers to high-level security classifications, "Special" may denote additional unique handling or security requirements, and "Communications intelligence" relates to information gathered from intercepted communications, which can also encompass a broader spectrum of intelligence activities but does not focus on keying material specifically.