diff --git a/phpseclib/Crypt/Base.php b/phpseclib/Crypt/Base.php
index 7fced1f1..6b64aa99 100644
--- a/phpseclib/Crypt/Base.php
+++ b/phpseclib/Crypt/Base.php
@@ -546,7 +546,7 @@ abstract class Base
     }
 
     /**
-     * Returns the current key length
+     * Returns the current key length in bits
      *
      * @access public
      * @return int
@@ -556,6 +556,17 @@ abstract class Base
         return $this->key_size << 3;
     }
 
+    /**
+     * Returns the current block length in bits
+     *
+     * @access public
+     * @return int
+     */
+    function getBlockLength()
+    {
+        return $this->block_size << 3;
+    }
+
     /**
      * Sets the key.
      *