GE's Speedtronic (Mark Series) gas turbine control system is a critical automation platform for the power and energy industry. Since the introduction of the Mark I in the 1960s, it has evolved to the Mark VIe. These control systems are widely used in gas turbines, steam turbines, and combined-cycle power plants, fulfilling core responsibilities for grid stability and power production.
Due to their widespread deployment in energy infrastructure, the security of the GE Mark Series has attracted considerable attention. In recent years, the US CISA and GE have issued numerous security advisories, reminding operators to guard against remote attacks, firmware vulnerabilities, and end-of-life equipment risks.
Mark I–IV (Early Systems, Retired)
Analog and early digital control systems have largely been phased out of field operations.
The primary risk lies in their complete lack of modern cybersecurity capabilities.
Mark V (1990s)
A classic digital control platform supporting HMIs and engineering interfaces.
Still in operation on some gas turbine and steam turbine systems, but reaching the end of its lifecycle.
Mark VI (2000s)
Introduced more redundancy and network communication features, improving system reliability.
At the same time, the increased networking also introduced new security exposures.
Mark VIe (current mainstay)
Supports modern Ethernet communication, remote diagnostics, and distributed control.
Provides some network security features, but vulnerabilities continue to be discovered and patches released.
CVE-2021-27426 (Mark VIe Web Tool Vulnerability)
Researchers discovered an authentication bypass vulnerability in the Mark VIe engineering tool, allowing attackers to access the configuration interface without authorization. GE subsequently released a patch and mitigation measures.
CVE-2022-38648 (Mark VI and VIe Hardcoded Credentials)
Some firmware versions contain default accounts that, if not disabled or modified, can be remotely exploited. CISA recommends updating the patch immediately and implementing network isolation to prevent attacks.
End-of-Life Mark V Risks
Although some power plants still operate Mark V, since GE no longer provides security updates, any newly discovered vulnerabilities can only be mitigated through physical isolation and access control.
Asset Identification and Classification
Confirm whether field equipment is Mark V, Mark VI, or Mark VIe.
Mark "Retired/End-of-Life" systems and prioritize replacement planning.
Patches and Mitigations
Regularly review GE Digital and CISA ICS Advisories.
For Mark VI/VIe, apply official firmware updates promptly.
For Mark V, implement physical isolation, read-only HMIs, and minimize remote connections.
Network and Access Control
Completely segment Mark control systems from the corporate IT network.
Do not expose Mark VI/VIe HMIs directly to the internet.
All remote maintenance access must be through a VPN and multi-factor authentication.
Long-Term Migration Planning
Power plants operating Mark V should gradually migrate to Mark VIe to receive ongoing security support and feature improvements. Discontinued Mark I–IV systems should be taken offline or completely replaced.
The GE Mark series, as the core control system for power and gas turbines, plays a vital role in the global energy industry.
However, with legacy systems lacking patches and newer systems frequently exposed to vulnerabilities, secure operations and maintenance are crucial. Only through regular updates, network isolation, access control, and migration planning can the security and stability of power plants and power grids be ensured.
Recommended Products and Advantages
Moore Automation offers a full range of GE control and excitation systems, including Mark I & II, Mark III, Mark IV, Mark V, Mark VI, Mark VIe, as well as Excitation EX2000, EX2100, EX2100e, LCI Innovation Series, and GE Drives.
We provide competitive pricing, fast delivery times, and professional technical support to ensure your system operates efficiently with minimal downtime. Whether you need discontinued modules or new-generation upgrades, Moore Automation is your trusted supplier for GE industrial automation parts.
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