# KG-13

> first transistorized cryptographic machine developed by National Security Agency in the early 1960s

**Wikidata**: [Q6329481](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6329481)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KG-13)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kg-13

## Summary
KG-13 is the first transistorized cryptographic machine developed by the National Security Agency in the early 1960s. It is classified as a secure cryptoprocessor, meaning it is a device used for encryption. It is also known by the working title and alias “PONTUS.”

## Key Facts
- KG-13 is described as the first transistorized cryptographic machine developed by the National Security Agency in the early 1960s.
- Developer: National Security Agency (NSA).
- Subclass of: secure cryptoprocessor (a device used for encryption).
- Aliases include: PONTUS and “KG-13 Electronic Key Generator.”
- Working title: PONTUS.
- NATO Stock Number (NSN): 5810-00-863-9816.
- Wikipedia title: “KG-13.”
- Wikipedia language editions listed: English (en) and Russian (ru).
- Freebase ID: /m/04ctv9w.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the KG-13?
A: The KG-13 is the first transistorized cryptographic machine developed by the National Security Agency in the early 1960s. It is categorized as a secure cryptoprocessor used for encryption.

### Q: Who developed the KG-13?
A: The KG-13 was developed by the National Security Agency (NSA). The provided sources describe it as an NSA-developed transistorized cryptographic machine.

### Q: What does “PONTUS” mean in relation to KG-13?
A: “PONTUS” is listed as an alias for KG-13 and also appears as its working title. The sources do not provide additional context beyond naming it as an alternate/working name.

### Q: Is KG-13 associated with a NATO Stock Number?
A: Yes. The KG-13 has the NATO Stock Number 5810-00-863-9816.

## Why It Matters
KG-13 matters because it is identified as the first transistorized cryptographic machine developed by the National Security Agency in the early 1960s. As a secure cryptoprocessor, it sits within the category of devices used for encryption, placing it in the lineage of hardware built specifically to support cryptographic operations. Its “first transistorized” designation highlights a notable technological milestone within cryptographic machinery as described by the source material, distinguishing it from earlier approaches that were not transistorized. The existence of a NATO Stock Number (5810-00-863-9816) indicates it was cataloged in a standardized logistics system, which is relevant for identification and procurement contexts. The presence of multiple names—KG-13, PONTUS, and “KG-13 Electronic Key Generator”—also matters for research and record linkage, since historical and technical references may use different labels for the same device. Overall, KG-13 is significant as an NSA-developed encryption-related machine associated with an early-1960s transition to transistorized cryptographic equipment.

## Notable For
- Being described as the first transistorized cryptographic machine developed by the National Security Agency.
- Classification as a secure cryptoprocessor (device used for encryption).
- Use of “PONTUS” as both a working title and an alias.
- Having a NATO Stock Number: 5810-00-863-9816.
- Being referenced under the name “KG-13 Electronic Key Generator” as an alias.

## Body
### Identity and Naming
KG-13 is a cryptographic machine referenced under multiple names:
- Primary name: KG-13
- Alias / working title: PONTUS
- Alias: “KG-13 Electronic Key Generator”

### Classification
KG-13 is categorized as a secure cryptoprocessor.
- Parent class: secure cryptoprocessor
- Definition (from provided material): a device used for encryption

### Developer and Description
- Developer: National Security Agency (NSA)
- Description: the first transistorized cryptographic machine developed by the NSA in the early 1960s

### Identifiers and Cataloging
- NATO Stock Number (NSN): 5810-00-863-9816
- Freebase ID: /m/04ctv9w

### Reference Footprint
- Wikipedia title: KG-13
- Wikipedia language editions listed: en, ru
- Sitelink count (as provided): 2