User:Breadpan/HFGCS Sources

Sources for review and inclusion

Source 1

• https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/policy/army/fm/6-02-74/fm6_02x74.pdf

Appendix A: High Frequency Global Communications System

The high frequency global communications system (HFGCS) is a 24-hour/7-day nonsecure network used by the President and Secretary of Defense, the DOD, and other federal departments, and allied users equipped with HF-ALE radio technology in support of command and control between aircraft/ships and associated ground stations.

The system consists of fifteen communication stations. Fourteen stations are remotely controlled from the Central Network Control Station (CNCS) at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. Radio operators at the CNCS use position consoles to control individually each remote HF global station. Figure A-1 depicts system architecture and interstation connectivity. When authorized by the HFGCS ALE network manager, joint ALE users can use the HFGCS ALE network (see appendix B).

Appendix B: Established and Proposed ALE Networks

Established Networks: I. HFGCS

High Frequency Global Communications System (HFGCS)
Managing Agency: HFGCS, Andrews AFB, MD
DSN: 858-5333
Commercial: (301) 981-5333
Web Address:
Purpose/Use: Global communications.
Voice: Yes
Data: Yes, HF Messenger
Users: DOD and others as authorized
Area of Coverage: Worldwide
Special Capabilities: Automatic phone patching
COMSEC: NSA Type 1 via KIV-7

Established Networks: III. Shared Resources

Managing Agency: National Communications System (NCS)
DSN:
Commercial:
Web Address: http://www.ncs.gov/n3/shares/shares.htm
Purpose/Use: Supporting national security and emergency preparedness
Voice: Yes
Data: HF e-mail
Users: Open to all (contact NCS for participation)
Area of Coverage: CONUS, Alaska, Hawaii
Special Capabilities:
COMSEC: 

Source 2: DoD Public RFI

• https://sam.gov/opp/908928bfa9cbd87e17bd44874d6a380f/view (2016)

The High Frequency Global Communications System (HFGCS) provides rapid, reliable, non-dedicated communications support to the President and Secretary of Defense, DoD agencies, and aircraft and ships of the United States government during peacetime, contingency operations, and war. The Puerto Rico Station (PRS) consists of a transmitter, receiver/control site and antenna farms that are remotely controlled and operated 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by radio operators from two net control stations (NCS) located at Andrews AFB, MD and Grand Forks AFB, ND. The primary mission of the HFGCS-PRS contract is to provide a high level of effective on-site organizational maintenance and support for the PRS sites at Salinas and Isabela, Puerto Rico. The key outcome is effective and reliable operations and maintenance of all System Capable Of Planned Expansion (SCOPE) Command equipment, associated communications systems and antennas at the PRS in accordance with (IAW) applicable Air Force Technical Orders (AFTO) and commercial manuals, to include all facility maintenance, management, and supply support at the site. The HFGCS contractor is responsible to execute contract requirements in a safe and appropriate manner acceptable to the Government in accordance with the draft Performance Work Statement (Attachment 1).

See also;

• https://sam.gov/opp/8c4ea009107ee44af94baf99edf3c0d8/view (2019) (includes mention of MIL STDs, etc.)

Source 3: 673d CS Airmen integral in global communications system

• https://www.jber.jb.mil/News/Articles/Display/Article/2919720/673d-cs-airmen-integral-in-global-communications-system/ (2022)

U.S. Airmen with the 673d Communications Squadron were critical to the install of a 120-foot-tall High Frequency Global Communications System antenna tower at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, with the finishing touches slated to be completed later this year.

The antenna is part of one of the U.S. Air Force’s 13 HFGCS stations, which are strategically located around the world for communication between the U.S. military’s ground stations and in-flight aircraft, seaborne vessels and submarines.

With a range that extends across the Bering Sea, the JBER station is vital to communications with U.S Air Force crew members intercepting Russian aircraft and escorting them away from U.S. airspace. When an inspections team found structural damage to the transmit antenna in summer 2018, a project was soon underway to decommission and replace it.

“The damage is believed to be from Alaska’s frequent earthquakes which, over time, caused the soil to move around and settle,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Brandon Schwing, the 673d CS Network Transport section chief.

Although contractors were responsible for disassembly, disposal and construction of the antenna tower, the 673d CS’s Radio Frequency Transmission Systems and Antenna Maintenance Airmen have been essential to the years-long project.

“These work centers coordinated this project with the HFGCS Special Program Office for over three years,” Schwing said. “They coordinated logistics and shipping, stored construction materials, cleared brush and mowed the antenna fields, obtained dig permits, obtained base access for the install team, activated and deactivated antennas, and provided escorts for the 2018 assessment team, the 2020 site survey team and the 2021 install team.”

Clearing brush and mowing around the site was undoubtedly the most labor-intensive task accomplished by the CS team for the project.

“We've had to mow a radius of about 500 yards with just one push mower for the antenna to be built and allow the specific placements of the guy-wires,” said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Trenton Sexton, a 673d CS Antenna Systems technician. “That mower we used will destroy anything and using it was awesome, but you’re just walking in a circle that gets bigger and bigger until you finally hit the final circle and you can call it quits for the day.

“We also had to cut out a driveway with the mower so the contractors could access the site because it was quite overgrown,” Sexton continued. “The brush and grass grew pretty fast and some of it was taller than me, so we had to tilt the mower up and let it eat everything.”

Sexton’s work center is typically responsible for preventative maintenance and inspections of the physical structure of the tower and cables, replacing rusted or compromised components, and adjusting the tension of the guy-wires to keep the tower stable.

“We also come out here to maintain all of the roads for the RF shop and pass by the antenna,” Sexton said. “It used to be little pieces, and now it's fully built and totally different compared to the other antennas. It was a cool experience, seeing it from start to finish.”

On the system end of things, RF Transmission Systems Airmen had to take the antenna offline before work could begin. These Airmen handle creating radio circuits to connect radios to antennas.

“Fortunately the new antenna was put on the same antenna ports on the matrix as the old antenna,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. James Angell, a 673d CS Radio Frequency Transmission Systems supervisor. “The system isn't going to know the difference, so we aren’t going to have to reprogram it.”

Angell explained that in addition to allowing for secure communication channels for Russian intercept missions, the HFGCS provides communication support for NASA, Air Force One and Mystic Star — an HF communications system for the U.S. president, vice president and other officials aboard Special Air Mission aircraft.

“It's humbling, but also gives me a sense of pride to know that we're part of that mission,” Angell said.

“My Airmen take great pride in maintaining JBER’s HFGCS and ensuring the system stays online to secure our national defense,” Schwing said. “The Airmen have gone above and beyond to make sure the HFGCS antenna installation progressed unhindered. They gladly provided their technical expertise, support and assistance throughout every phase of this multi-year project. Without them, the installation would not have happened.”

Source 4: AFI 33-106 (9 January 2002)

• https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA405147.pdf (2002)

2. The Global Communications System - HF. This system consists of 14 HF stations around the world providing worldwide communications to all DoD aircraft, ships, and ground agencies on a shared by priority basis.
2.1. The system supports:
2.1.1. Command and control, special purpose, contingency air-ground-air, and Navy ship-to-shore communications. Neither the system nor individual stations are dedicated to any service, command, or other activity.
2.1.2. Authorized users according to established traffic precedence.
2.2. The Global Communications System - HF Manager (HQ AFCA/GCWM):
2.2.1. Establishes a single set of Air Force procedures for global HF system operations.
2.2.2. Reviews and implements MAJCOM-level recommendations for changes to the Air Force Global HF System procedures.
2.2.3. Coordinates the mission requirements of HF system users with appropriate MAJCOM plans/programs, operations, and requirement directorates.
2.2.4. Answers requests for intercommand and interservice special communications support.
2.2.5. Evaluates Global HF system network performance.
2.2.6. Accompanies MAJCOM HF managers on staff visits to evaluate operations, equipment use, and system integrity.
2.3. The MAJCOM HF managers within the Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command, Air Force Materiel Command, Pacific Air Forces, United States Air Forces in Europe, Air Force Space Command, United States Navy High Command (HICOM - USN HF/SSB Communications Network),
and MYSTIC STAR:
2.3.1. Oversee operations of assets under their control.
2.3.2. Match employees and equipment to job requirements.
2.3.3. Evaluate training, operations, and equipment use.
2.3.4. Coordinate publication creation and production.
3. MYSTIC STAR System . This is a worldwide communications system, operated and maintained by elements of the United States Army, United States Navy, and United States Air Force under the control of the DISA Operations Center. Its network provides worldwide communications by directly controlling
radio equipment located at Global HF system stations. It consists of ultra high frequency satellite and HF networks supporting Presidential, special air, commanders-in-chief, Joint Staff, very important persons, and command airborne missions.
3.1. The MYSTIC STAR HF Network consists of:
3.1.1. A single master net control station (MNCS) located at Andrews AFB MD.
3.1.2. Interstation and intersite circuits.
3.1.3. Relay and auxiliary communications subsystems.
3.2. HQ AMC/SCP:
3.2.1. Oversees the life-cycle management of the MYSTIC STAR Network.
3.2.2. Develops system architecture, network policy, and guidelines in conjunction with DISA.
3.2.3. Oversees the activities of the MYSTIC STAR Ops-Tech Manager’s Office.
3.2.4. Manages the life cycle, future planning, programming, and budgeting of MYSTIC STAR elements from a system perspective.
3.3. The MYSTIC STAR Operations Technical Manager:
3.3.1. Operates from the 789th Communications Squadron (789 CS/SCP), 1558 Alabama Ave, Suite 67, Andrews AFB MD 20762-6116.
3.3.2. Directly interfaces with the MYSTIC STAR users.
3.3.3. Evaluates system facilities.
3.3.4. Assesses network performance.
3.3.5. Compares performance trends to established standards.
3.3.6. Recommends improvements to criteria, documentation, or performance.
3.3.7. Works with personnel on all plans for operating, maintaining, managing, controlling, and configuring the network. 
3.3.8. Recommends budgets for network operations.
3.3.9. Reports the operational status, performance status, or limitations of the network to HQ AMC/SCP.
3.3.10. Implements plans and special system configurations.
3.4. The Commander, 89th Communications Group:
3.4.1. Manages, operates, and evaluates the MNCS according to DISA Circular 310-70-79.
3.4.2. Gives network status updates to the MYSTIC STAR system manager through the operations technical manager.
3.4.3. Provides facility, administrative, and logistical support for the MNCS. 


{break}


ATTACHMENT 8
CHECKLIST FOR GLOBAL HIGH FREQUENCY (HF) SYSTEM
A8.1. Has the Global System Manager:
A8.1.1. Established a single set of Air Force procedures for Global HF system operations?
A8.1.2. Reviewed and implemented MAJCOM-level recommendations for changes to the Air Force Global HF System procedures?
A8.1.3. Coordinated mission requirements with system users?
A8.1.4. Answered questions for intercommand and interservice special communications support?
A8.1.5. Evaluated Global HF System network performance?
A8.1.6. Accompanied MAJCOM HF managers on staff visits to evaluate operations, equipment use, and system integrity?
A8.1.7. Overseen operations of assets under their control?
A8.1.8. Matched employees and equipment to job requirements?
A8.1.9. Evaluated training, operations, and equipment use?
A8.1.10. Coordinated publication creation and production?
A8.1.11. Tracked each publication through production and reported its status to the system manager? 

Source 5: 319th Reconnaissance Wing

• https://www.grandforks.af.mil/About-Us/Units/videoid/941423/dvpTag/help/ (2024ish?)

The 319th RW is one of two locations operating the High Frequency Global Communications System (HFGCS) that transmits and monitors signals and Emergency Action Messages globally for senior leader communications up to the President of the United States, and all DoD agencies. HFGCS signals can penetrate oceans, pass through hurricane walls, and signals can extend to the surface of the moon making this system the primary means of communication for U.S. contingencies and can transmit in severely degraded and hostile environments.

Source 6: US DoD Financial Line Item Thing (2024)

• https://gemini-custom-report.s3.amazonaws.com/2025/PROC_AF_837190.pdf (2024)

Description:
PE 0303133F HIGH FREQUENCY GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (HFGCS)
The High Frequency Global Communications System (HFGCS) equipment replacement program procures, integrates, modernizes/technical refresh, and fields high frequency (HF) radio equipment, network infrastructure, and transmit /receive antennas for 13 strategically located ground stations worldwide and 2 network control stations. The hardware and integration is based on commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) or Government-developed products that have been configured for the Department of Defense (DOD), to provide the unique military capabilities required to function as a strategic HF system. The need for modern, robust, resilient, and dependable radio stations with beyond line of sight radio coverage has been identified to ensure HF radio communications is available in areas of interest to the United States.

HFGCS is the DoD's single global, strategic, high-power HF Nuclear Command, Control and Communication (NC3), and non-nuclear Command and Control (C2) network serving the DOD and other federal agencies. HFGCS consists of the two major components: the radio /network infrastructure (Scope Command) and the antenna infrastructure (Antenna Program Support) which communicate with mobile assets (aircraft, ships, and land-based platforms). HFGCS is USSTRATCOM's primary strategic HF pre-attack NC3 dependency system providing broadcasts to global strategic forces. HFGCS supports aircrews, ground forces, naval operations (USN and USCG), and control stations, and is the primary HF C2 resource for Air Mobility Command cargo and tanker aircraft. Additional customers include White House Communications Agency (WHCA), Defense Communications System HF Entry, and other US government agencies. HFGCS supports war plan dissemination and daily operational requirements for USSTRATCOM, WHCA, Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), National Military Command Center's Emergency Action Message distribution, Special Air Mission communications, Major Air Force Commands and Combatant Commanders. HFGCS provides radio connectivity to other governmental organizations such as the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Transportation Security Administration, State Department and Civil Air Patrol. The HFGCS network supports Non Enduring Requirements with secure, robust, physically diverse terrestrial and airborne transmission paths providing information services between fixed and deployed operating locations. HFGCS has also been identified as a key beyond-line-of-sight communications component in supporting operations in a satellite challenged environment.

HFGCS supports HF Modernization with five lines of effort across the DoD:
(1) Improve Arctic C2 by implementing modern HF standard waveforms and add station(s) at strategic locations to support that DoD;
(2) Implement DoD HF Modernization strategy that synchronizes the efforts across the services to implement more robust and resilient waveforms and methods to execute the several critical missions supported;
(3) Execute USAF HF Modernization requirements that directly supports the Airborne HF Radio Modernization (AHFRM) that allows modernized airborne radio equipment to communicate with the ground stations;
(4) Integrate Air Operations Center (AOC) HF radio requirements and robust waveforms to serve as an alternate communications method in a satellite challenged environment;
(5) Implement PACAF HF Strategy that improves PACAF support for the INDOPACOM AOR by supporting robust and resilient HF communications across the AOR; and,
(6) Execute NC3 HF Modernization efforts.


The HFGCS program continues to update and modernize audio switching equipment, mitigate COTS obsolescence, and update other unsupportable end-of-life components and to provide increased mandated information assurance system security compliance requirements. This requires technical refresh of the unsustainable equipment and communications infrastructure supporting NC3 /C2 operations. New COTS components support future modernization efforts. In addition, new and updated equipment Included is Direct Mission Support /Program Support Costs (DMS/PMA), System Engineering, Joint Interoperability Test Center (JITC) installation testing and shipping costs for these procurement efforts.

Source 7: US SEC, Form 10-K, PAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

• https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/708821/000070882120000018/par12311910-k.htm (2019ish)

Satellite & Telecommunications Support. We provide a wide range of technical and support services to sustain mission critical components of the Department of Defense Information Network (“DoDIN”). These services include continuous 24/7/365 satellite and teleport facility operations and maintenance, engineering and installation services including Inside and Outside Plant (ISP/OSP) services, and maintenance of infrastructure and information systems for very low frequency (VLF), high frequency (HF), and very high frequency (VHF) ground-based radio transmitter/receiver facilities, including high tower antennas. We operate and maintain satellite communications and teleport facilities with extremely high frequency (EHF) and super high frequency (SHF) satellite communication earth terminals, and support telecommunications architectures such as fixed submarine broadcast systems and High-Frequency Global Communications Systems (HFGCS). The DoD communications earth stations operated by PAR are the primary communications systems utilized by the national command authority and military services to exercise command and control of the nation’s air, land, and naval forces and to provide support to allied coalition forces.

Source 8: High Frequency (HF) Global Communications System (HFGCS)

• Mirror of the old official HFGCS website, from ~1999
• https://man.fas.org/dod-101/sys/ac/equip/hfgcs.htm

The High Frequency (HF) Global Communications System (HFGCS) supports war plans and operational requirements for the following organizations: White House Communications Agency (WHCA), Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), Air Mobility Command (AMC), Air Combat Command (ACC), AF Air Intelligence Agency (AIA), Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), Air Force Space Command (AFSPC), United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE), Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), and Air Weather Service (AWS).
The USAF High-Power High Frequency (HF) network is composed of systems greater than 1 kw of transmission power. The operational frequency band is 2 to 30 MHz and includes the following systems deloyed in 14 worldwide locations:
Scope Pattern (>>50s) - 3 kw
Scope Control (>>50s) - 10 kw
Scope Signal III (>>80s) - 10 kw
Scope Command (>>90s) - 4 kw
A HFGCS station consists of 3 sites: Transmitter, Receiver, and Control including station infrastructure of antennas and feedlines, and inter-site communications, and other support systems. Also considered to be part of the system are the operators and maintainers, logistics support and the training system.
SCOPE Command, a program of the High Frequency Global Communication System (HFGCS) System program office (SPO), is an upgrade and modernization program that will upgrade 14 high frequency (HF) ground stations worldwide to support four unique missions:
United States Air Force (USAF) Global - Supports a wide range of users by providing air-ground-air, ship-to-shore, broadcast, and Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) capability to various DoD customers.
Mystic Star - Provides HF communications for the President, Vice-President, cabinet members, and other senior government and military officials while aboard Special Air Mission aircraft.
SITFAA - A Spanish/English/Portuguese language network supporting North, Central, and South American Air Force users in 18 countries. Provides voice and data HF links.
DCS HF entry - Provides HF communications services for tactical units in areas of the world where DCS connectivity is unavailable or insufficient.

Consider outdated unless ...

Source 9: Rural communications site has global mission

• https://www.af.mil/News/Features/Display/Article/143089/rural-communications-site-has-global-mission/ (2009)

Although it's location in the middle of a cornfield on a quiet country road may seem cutoff from society, in reality the Elkhorn Communication Site reaches beyond almost every border -- worldwide.

Situated 35 miles northwest of Offutt Air Force Base, this 50-year-old rural communications site is one of the 13 stations around the world that comprise the High Frequency Global Communication System. Together, the sites provide the Air Force and the Department of Defense with rapid, reliable, two-way communications every day of the year.

"A lot of people don't even know we're out here," said Brady Bach, a telecommunications specialist with the 55th Strategic Communications Squadron. "Even members of the communications squadron on base have no idea where we're located a lot of the time."

But while their location may be at times a mystery, their mission certainly is not. The HFGCS serves as one of the main communications systems for many U.S. government agencies. This includes the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Central, Pacific and Strategic Commands, and U.S. State Department as well as the president.

"When the president is in the air, he has 24/7 communication thanks to our system," said Dave Clingerman, site chief and telecommunications specialist with the 55th SCS. "HF is one of the most reliable communications going."

In addition to its usual global customers, the HFGCS recently went out of this world to provide communication support to NASA as it worked to get astronauts safely back to earth following a trip to the international space station.

"I am amazed as to the number of agencies that use our system on a daily basis and more are added yearly," said Duane Swigert, a telecommunications specialist with the 55th SCS. "If only we had the time to just sit there and listen to those conversations -- that would be exciting."

Each HFGCS site around the globe has control of 6,000 square miles of coverage. But when a station is having technical difficulties or is down for maintenance, the other sites have the ability to step in and assist until it's fully operational again. And with the Elkhorn Communications Site being located in the central part of the United States, it is called upon frequently because of its flexibility.

"Sitting right here, we can support either coast," Mr. Clingerman said. "It's truly seamless to our customers."

Spread out over 386 acres just outside of Elkhorn, with an additional 156 acres in Scribner, Neb., the communications site features 32 antennas. This includes 15 high frequency, eight directional rotatable log periodic and nine omni directional antennas.

"They want as little interference as possible, which is why we're out here (in the country)," Mr. Clingerman said. "The receiver site is in Scribner because we don't want transmitters right next to them. The system puts out 4,000 watts, so you don't want that transmitting right on the front end of a receiver."

While the site is now maintained by a small staff of four, it was at one time a bustling hub of activity with more than 100 Airmen performing the mission.

"Technology was a big part (of the downsizing) as was budget cuts," Mr. Swigert said.

"The old equipment required a lot more people to maintain it, so what used to take a lot of bodies to perform the mission now only takes four," said Mr. Clingerman.

However, with the small staff, the mission doesn't suffer. With their diverse communications backgrounds these four can easily handle the system and its four technologies: radio, telephone, networking and tech control.

"We've got a bunch of experience and we're a very cohesive team here," Mr. Bach said. "We all have our strengths and we're all fully qualified to perform the mission."

"Diversity (in experience and knowledge) here is the key reason we are able to keep this system running at a nearly 100 percent operational status year round," Mr. Swigert said. "We each bring something important to the table that makes things work smoothly, like a well oiled machine, as they say."

While the system plays an important role in communications for organizations and personnel around the world, it has yet to reach its maximum capability. In the future, the Elkhorn Communications Site may see digital HF, airborne networking as well as possibly integrating with the Joint Tactical Radio System.

"When other satellites go out, HF is always around," Mr. Clingerman said. "More users are coming on board with our system, people are starting to realize what it can do and it's a technology that isn't going to go away."

So while this unit may be out of mind and out of sight for the most part, there's no doubt about its contribution to the mission.

"I have had folks tell me that this place is the Air Force's best kept secret," Mr. Swigert said, "and I would have to agree."

Source 10: Andrews radio operators assist crew members worldwide

• https://www.jba.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/131131/andrews-radio-operators-assist-crewmembers-worldwide/ (2009)

As an Air Force aircraft approaches Yokota Air Base, Japan, the pilot sets his radio to a specified frequency and says, “Main Sail, Main Sail” -- the call sign for any global radio station. 

Within seconds, the pilot hears, “This is the Yokota operator.” That operator is actually with the 789th Communications Squadron at the Centralized Network Control Station, or CNCS, here. 

Many pilots and other aircrew members think they are talking with someone at the location they contacted on the radio, but in reality, the operator sits in front of a console in a building here at Andrews, said Capt. Kenneth Black, 789th CS operations flight commander. 

The CNCS has 14 high-frequency ground stations located around the world, the captain said. The transmitter and receiver for each station, however, is controlled from the CNCS. 

“We provide air-to-ground communications for command and control of aircraft as they fly around the world,” Captain Black said.

The CNCS also provides phone-patch and message-relay services, ship-to-shore communications and emergency assistance for Department of Defense users; and high-frequency communications for the president, vice president, cabinet members and other senior officials while aboard special air mission aircraft. Phone patches are a connection between a telephone line and another communications device, such as a radio.

Additionally, Spanish-speaking radio operators handle radio requests from pilots and other aircrew members from Central and South American countries. 

Each station in the CNCS has a console and a small speaker, which crackles with high-frequency static all the time, said Airman 1st Class Corina Arangure, 789th CS radio operator. 

Radio operators spend 12-hour shifts monitoring designated stations, Airman Arangure said. They listen to military aircraft, ships and other DOD users requesting assistance, such as a phone patch or to have a message relayed to a ground location.

The radio operators have no way of knowing what to expect when they hear someone using the “Main Sail” call sign, Captain Black said.

A person calling in may want to talk to the command post at the base where his or her aircraft is heading, he said. The caller may not know the phone number of the command post or doesn’t have a phone on board the aircraft. The CNCS radio operator can call the command post and then connect the aircraft operator to a person at the command post, he said. 

Another CNCS radio operator may receive a phone call from someone trying to contact an aircraft, he said. 

“A lot of aircraft don’t have telephones,” Captain Black said. “We’re given the call sign the aircrew uses and (we) broadcast it over the high-frequency global communications system.” 

People call in seeking assistance for various reasons, such as engine trouble or an onboard emergency, said Staff Sgt. Latoya Edwards, 789th CS radio operator.

The 789th CS operations flight has 89 radio operators, who are all enlisted Airmen, said Senior Master Sgt. Jeff Haynes, 789th CS operations flight chief. Airmen manned the 14 high-frequency stations until six years ago, when the Air Force upgraded its equipment and had the transmitter and receiver for each station remotely controlled from the CNCS here. 

Computer software is being upgraded in the CNCS, which will allow operators to sit at a console, log in and monitor any of the other consoles, Captain Black said.

The software upgrade will also enable the Air Force to have another CNCS at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., which will serve such as backup to the Andrews unit, Sergeant Haynes said.

Captain Black said the radio operators at Andrews provide a valuable service to servicemembers, national leaders and the Department of Defense.

“They maintain a listening watch to ensure global mission success,” he said.

Source 10: DoD C3 Modernization Strategy

• https://dodcio.defense.gov/Portals/0/Documents/DoD-C3-Strategy.pdf (2020)

LOE 4.6 – Develop and deliver advanced BLOS capabilities for SATCOM-denied environments. Once a mainstay of BLOS communications, the use of HF communications diminished with the proliferation of SATCOM. However, the current threat environment coupled with advances in HF internet protocol-enabled software defined radios, digital beamforming antennas, digital signal processing, networking, multi-function systems, and wideband technologies make HF a necessary and effective alternative to SATCOM in D-DIL environments. The DoD must modernize its HF enterprise, both the HF Global Communications System (HFGCS) and the strategic and tactical platforms, with these technologies. The DoD must also pursue other innovations such as relay, range extension, and cross-banding capabilities to bridge the communications gap in SATCOM denied environments. 

Source 11: Andrews communications Airmen have global mission

• https://www.afdw.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/334868/andrews-communications-airmen-have-global-mission/ (2013)

He'll be the first to admit that his job is far from easy. Maintaining highly complex, state-of-the-art cyber systems operations equipment is something Senior Airman Joseph Cline finds amazingly difficult, but one that he says has global implications.

Cline is a member of the 89th Communications Squadron at Joint Base Andrews, Md., a unit responsible for supporting a number of highly visible organizations, such as the joint chiefs of staff, the State Department, even the president. And, according to his boss, Master Sgt. Robert Jones, "he has one of the most important jobs in the Air Force."

The squadron's high frequency global communication systems is a worldwide network of 13 high-powered, high frequency radio stations that provide command and control communications between ground agencies and military aircraft and ships. The stations are positioned around the globe in North America, the Pacific and Europe.

Cline is part of a 36-member crew in one of the busiest maintenance shops in the Air Force. "It's a lot of work, but it's also exciting work," said Cline. "Here at Andrews, we can remotely control all worldwide receiving and transmitting sites, as well as maintain 16 radio consoles."

The Air Force began operating its global system in 1994, when they consolidated several high frequency networks that included the Strategic Air Command's "Giant Talk" system and the Global Command and Control System used by the remainder of the Air Force.

According to Tech. Sgt. Kimberly Derr, Andrews Net Control Station (ANCS) radio operator supervisor, there are about 60 console operators at Andrews who monitor the radios 24/7.

"They remotely control radio communications transmitted and received from 13 different locations," Derr said. "The operators report any outages to the maintenance section right across the hall."

Derr said the unit has a mission that mirrors the many missions of the Air Force overall: "They do everything from transmit emergency action messages to America's nuclear force to support space launches to provide long-range communications for Navy vessels and maritime patrol aircraft. They also provide the president and other senior leaders with vital voice and data communications."

Staff Sgt. Julian Hupp is a cyber transport systems technician who wasn't exactly sure what to expect upon his arrival to the unit. He said that each ground station consists of three sites: transmitter, receiver and control, in addition to an infrastructure of antennas, feed lines and inter-site communications - not an easy system to understand.

"I have a lot of experience on different systems from my last base, but the servers here were new to me," said Hupp. "It was really intimidating. Sometimes you don't know which way to go and it makes you very patient and innovative. But it's one of the best feelings in the world once you figure it out."

Derr said that, while most units have concrete technical orders, standards and procedures to keep their operations running, her Airmen rely on good old-fashioned knowledge and experience to get the job done. "We have no tech school or tech orders to follow that are specific to this system," said Derr. "But there's nothing they can't fix here. They always help each other, which really helps when you have to troubleshoot a system half away around the world. Every day is a training day."

Airman 1st Class Matt Laughner is a radio transmission technician that puts his job, and that of his unit, into perspective. "We remotely manage 235 global network infrastructure devices, 320 system servers and maintain more than 900 network accounts, as well as a high-frequency email configuration. We don't always see the results of our efforts and we don't know the content of the email traffic, but all I have to do is watch the news and know we make a difference."

Source 12: Synopsis / Draft Request for Proposal (RFP) HFGCS Puerto Rico Station (PRS) Recompete

• https://www.highergov.com/contract-opportunity/synopsis-draft-request-for-proposal-rfp-high-f-fa489024r0009-p-bc1d4/ (2024?)

== HFGCS Site Visit Agenda.pdf ==
Day 1 Agenda: Wednesday, May 1st- Isabela Transmiter Site 
Day 2 Agenda: Wednesday, May 1st- Salinas Receiver Site 
/!\ PUERTO RICO SITE MAP

== Presolicitation Synopsis.pdf ==
"The HFGCS site visit is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday 1-2 May 2024. Government personnel will meet approved contractor personnel attending the site visit at 0900 at the gate of the Isabela transmitter site, (HFGCS-PRS, Highway #2, KM116.5, Aguadilla, PR 00603). The site visit brief will begin at 0930 in the facility conference room and conclude with site tour of the facilities, equipment, and antenna field. On 2 May, day two of the conference, will convene at the HFGCS Salinas Receiver Site located on Camp Santiago (Puerto Rican Army National Guard installation). Directions/guidance to the receiver site will be provided upon arrival. Registration: Attendees must preregister; walk-ins will not be permitted. Due to limited transportation and government escort restrictions, each offeror is limited to a total of two (2) personnel to attend.  "

Source 13: Microsoft Word - HFGCS 2023 Program Excellence Submission) (from Collins Aerospace)

• https://adprograms.aviationweek.com/content/dam/Informa/adprograms-aviation/2023/programexcellencesub/oem_sustain/OEM_System_Sustainment_Upgrades-Collins_Aerospace_HFGCS.pdf (2023)

Please respond to the following prompts:
 10 points: Describe UNIQUE areas of VUCA faced by your program and why. 

Since 1998, Collins has an annual support contract to support the HFGCS (a DoD network of HF ground radio stations). The Collins HFGCS support team continues to demonstrate extraordinary customer service. In two separate instances in 2022, an HFGCS Air Force site had equipment failures that immediately caused their sites to become non-operational. In both cases, Collins immediately flew an emergency technician to their location the same day that the failure occurred, and the site was up and running within hours.

Like many DoD industry programs, the HFGCS team has experienced its fair share of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA) throughout its tenure. Our program and customer leadership have been on the forefront of identifying, mitigating, and/or overcoming numerous unforeseen challenges. By partnering with our DoD counterparts, the HFGCS team has been able to execute flawlessly over the years – receiving Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting (CPAR) ratings of Very Good in both Quality and Management and recognized by our customer as providing best-in-class customer service. CPAR ratings such as these contributed to the selection of Collins as the sole source provider for a new IDIQ contract awarded in 2022. 

Source 14: US DoD Financial Line Item Thing (2009)

• https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY09/AFD-080204-086.pdf?ver=2016-08-22-141541-383 (2009)

a. NETWORK MODERNIZATION IMPROVEMENTS: The HFGCS network is currently monitored and controlled from one network control station (NCS) located at Andrews AFB, Washington, DC. The DoD's post 9/11 review identified this reliance on one NCS as a 'single point of failure' within the HFGCS network. This review determined that an alternate NCS was needed to meet system survivability requirements ensuring uninterrupted network operations. FY09 funds continue the standup of an alternate NCS at a site soon to be determined. The alternate NCS will be designated as NCS-West (NCS- W). FY09 funds build on the completion of NCS-W with modernization of HFGCS by procuring digital HF upgrade and teleport, Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) and Global Information Grid (GIG) integration. FY09 funds also acquire the hardware and software infrastructure for the HFGCS transformation.

The HFGCS network supports the Global War on Terrorism by providing secure, robust, physically diverse terrestrial, airborne and space-based transmission paths and information services between fixed and deployed operating locations. FY09 funding will continue the CENTCOM station and continues the acquisition, testing and installation of a station in the Southwest Pacific for improved HF communications.

 b. ANTENNAS: Antenna survey assessments at all 13 HFGCS stations identified numerous obsolete, degraded and unsupportable antennas due to aging
(many in operation 25-40 years) and environmental conditions (only Offutt AFB, NE is not affected environmentally by salt water and hurricane or tsunami conditions). FY09 funds the first full year of the HFGCS Antenna Support Program with the acquisition of antennas and antenna sub-systems to include coax cables, connectors, dehydrators, grounding, bonding, shielding and lightning protection.

This explains why Offutt became a secondary station. Also, 13 stations in 2009

Source 15: Single Channel Transponder System (SCTS) (U)

• https://www.globalsecurity.org/space/library/report/1999/nssrm/initiatives/scts.htm#lo (1999ish?)
• Where is this from? What is this, exactly? It mentions FDMs

Single Channel Transponder System (SCTS) (U)
Overview (U):
(U) The Single Channel Transponder System (SCTS) provides Emergency Action Message (EAM) and Force Direction Message (FDM) dissemination capability to command centers (USSTRATCOM, EUCOM, SHAPE, NMCC, USSPACECOM, and PACOM) and force elements for the control of strategic and non-strategic nuclear forces.

Details (U):
Description	User Impact	Programmatics	Images
Related Initiatives	Related Requirements	Related Categories	Road Map Placements
Additional Hotlinks	Lead Office	POC	 

Description (U):
(U) The Single Channel Transponder System (SCTS) was fielded in 1985 as an interim system to provide jam, nuclear resistant communications to U.S. strategic forces. SCTS was to bridge the gap between the Air Force Satellite Communications (AFSATCOM) system and the new Milstar EHF satellite communications system. It provides SHF one-way satellite communications between the command centers and the nuclear- equipped ground forces through the fixed ICBM SHF Satellite Terminals (ISST) and the mobile Single Channel Transponder Receivers (SCTR). In addition, the SHF uplink from the command centers can be cross-banded through the satellite to UHF for reception by Dual Modem terminals located on bombers and tankers. The satellite element of SCTS uses the SCT package on the DSCS satellite system. The DSCS satellite is not planning to support strategic communications beyond 2003. Strategic ground systems will transition to the EHF spectrum. The ground terminals will be replaced by the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) EHF terminals and the Secure Mobile Anti-Jam Reliable Tactical Terminal (SMART-T).

User Impact (U):
(U) The system provides one of the survivable means of disseminating Emergency Action Messages (EAMs) and Force Direction Messages (FDMs) from the National Command Authorities (NCA) and the warfighting CINCs.

Programmatics (U):
(U) Operational.

Images (U):
(U) None.

Related Initiatives (U):
Name	Title
Adv Wideband Satellite (AWS)	Advanced Wideband Satellite (AWS)
Army Terminal Upg & Rpl	Army Terminal Upgrade and Replacement
DSCS III	Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) III
DSCS Service Life Enhance Prog	Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) Service Life Enhancement Program (SLEP)
ICBM EHF Terminals	Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) EHF Terminals
SMART-T	Secure Mobile Anti-Jam Reliable Tactical-Terminal (SMART-T)
This Table Is Unclassified.
Related Requirements (U):None.
Related Categories (U):
Name	Title
SHF Ground Segment Terminals	Super High Frequency (SHF) Ground Segment Terminals
This Table Is Unclassified.
Road Map Placements (U):
Name	Title
MILSATCOM	SPACE FORCE ENHANCEMENT: MILSATCOM
This Table Is Unclassified.
Requirements, Funding and Additional Hotlinks (U):
(U) None.

Lead Office (U):
(U) Air Force.

(U) DoD: OASD(C3I), Pentagon, Washington, DC
(U) Service Staff: SAF/AQII, SAFCIC/SYOA, Pentagon, Washington, DC
(U) Major Command: HQ, Air Force Space Command (AFSPC), Peterson AFB, CO
(U) Program Management: MILSATCOM Terminal Programs, ESC/MC, Hanscom AFB, MA

Point of Contact (U):
(U) Lt Craig Stevens, MILSATCOM JPO, Open Phone: DSN 833-4896.
(U) Lt Claudine Davenport, ESC, Open Phone: (781) 271-5689.

Date Of Information (U):
(U) 12 November 1997



(U) Road Map Production Date: 12 July 1999

Source 16: MEECN

• https://nuke.fas.org/guide/usa/c3i/meecn.htm

Old af from 1998, looks like a backup of info from the old official HFGCS website

Source 17: DVIDS - 673d CS Airmen integral in global communications system

• https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7030484/673d-cs-airmen-integral-global-communications-system (2022)

Poster lists the following stations:

JBER
OFFUTT
ANDREWS
WEST COAST
SALINAS
HICKAM
SOUTH ATLANTIC /* we know nothing about this one? */
LAJES
ASCENSION
CROUGHTON
SIGONELLA
DIEGO GARCIA
YOKOTA
ANDERSON

Poster also says:

HFGCS supports
- telephone, e-mail and internet capabilities
- POTUS, SECDEF, SECAF, NAOC, NMCC, STRATCOM, NORTHCOM, CJCS, PACOM, WHCA, FEMA and many others
Platforms:
- Air Force One, NAOC, TACAMO, VIP fleet, AWACS, P-3 Orion, KC-135, KC-10, C-130, C-5, C-17, and B-52
C2 Capabilities:
- 9/11 events, OIF, OEF, OIR, Typhoons

Source 18: 319th CS hosts High Frequency Global Communications System Open House

• https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7833466/319th-cs-hosts-high-frequency-global-communications-system-open-house (2023)

Senior Airman Mark Mann, 319th Communications Squadron High Frequency
Global Communications System operations technician, briefs mission capabilities during an HFGCS open house, May 25, 2023, at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota. The goal of the first-ever HFGCS open house was to familiarize airmen and their family’s global communication support provided by HFGCS here and at Joint Base Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ashley Richards)

Posters are difficult to read but include:

Station map 
- labels 'Elmendorf' /* vs JBER */
- A purple circle about part of Antarctica /* possibly related to south atlantic? */


"HFGCS Missions" poster (low res, hard to make out)
- Emergency War Order
- Phone Patch Support
- [Recoinnaissance? ...]
- [...]
- Automatic Link Establishment
- CJCS NC3 [...]
- MYSTIC Star
- US Embassy Emergency[...]

Source 19: DoD FLIGHT INFORMATION HANDBOOK

• https://www.columbus.af.mil/Portals/39/documents/New%20Students/FIH_1MAR18.pdf?ver=2019-01-14-165719-010

USAF HIGH FREQUENCY GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (HFGCS)
(AFFSA/AFFSA FIL 13-067)
a. GENERAL - The HFGCS System is a worldwide network of 14 high-power HF stations providing air/ground HF command and control radio communications between ground agencies and US military aircraft and ships. Allied military and other aircraft are also provided support IAW agreements and international protocols as appropriate. The HFGCS is not dedicated to any service or command, but supports all DoD authorized users on a traffic precedence/priority basis. General services provided by the HFGCS are:
- General Phone Patch and Message Relay Services
- Automatic Link Establishment (ALE)
- HF Data Support
- Command and Control Mission Following
- Emergency Assistance
- Broadcasts
- HF Direction Finding Assistance
- ATC Support
- E-Mail connectivity to NIPRNeT and SIPRNeT
- Secure calls (not phone patch) via dedicated circuits can be made from AMC aircraft TACC-AMC aircraft
b. MODERNIZATION - SCOPE Command replaces older high power Global HF equipment. SCOPE Command incorporates Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) to automate communications. All HFGCS station transmit and receive equipment is remotely controlled from the Centralized Network Control Station (CNCS) at Andrews AFB, MD.
c. PROCEDURES -
(1) General Calling. Aircrews use a preliminary call as outlined in ACP-121 US Supp 2 using the collective callsign "MAINSAIL" or the HFGCS station call sign (example: Sigonella Global this is Dark 86 on 11175, OVER). HFGCS operators require approximately 10 seconds (for automated equipment configuration) to respond to calls for service. The HFGCS operator may request the aircraft change to a discrete frequency for improved and/or extended service.
(a) PUBLISHED FREQUENCY LISTING - HFGCS stations operate on “core” frequencies to provide increased "Global" coverage. The published frequency listing does not reflect complete system frequency authorizations. These published frequencies will be used for initial contact, EAM broadcasts, and short-term C2 phone patch and message delivery. Other extended or special services will be moved to each station’s available "discrete" frequencies.
(b) FREQUENCY GUIDE - The frequency guides are designed to optimize air/ground communications.
Primary HFGCS Frequencies 24 Hours 8992 and 11175
Back up HFGCS Frequencies Day 13200 15016
Back up HFGCS Frequencies Night 4724 6739

/* STATION SCHEDULE */
/* Lists: Andrews, Ascension, Croughton, Diego Garcia, Elmendorf, Guam, Hawaii, Lajes, Offutt, Puerto Rico, Sigonella, West Coast, Yokota */

(2) Unclassified Phone Patch and Message Relay Services
(a) Phone Patch Service. Phone patching allows direct voice communications between ground agencies and aircraft by electronically connecting telephone circuits to radio transmitters and receivers. Phone patch service is reserved for official unclassified business only and shouldn’t exceed 5 minutes. Patches of more than 5 minutes or of a sensitive nature should be run on a discrete frequency. Users requesting a phone patch must include all information necessary for HFGCS operators to complete the call, such as the identity or location of the called parties and telephone number if known. Phone patches are monitored by HFGCS operators. If radio reception isn’t of sufficient quality to complete the patch, they will attempt to copy the traffic and relay it to addressees.
(b) Message Relay Service. HFGCS operators transcribe encoded or plain-text messages for aircraft or ground stations and forward them to the addresses by radio or landline. The text of the messages can be in the form of alpha-numerics, code words, plain text, acronyms, and/or numerical sequences. Aircrews may use "READ BACK" procedures when the message data is critical, or when an incomplete transmission is suspected due to poor radio reception. All messages received by Global stations will be accepted and delivered by the fastest means available according to precedence and priority.
(c) ALE - For ALE radios to operate properly, the radio must have a loaded datafill, be turned on in the “automatic/scanning” mode and remain there the duration of the flight. If the radio is removed from the ALE mode, history tables will require time to rebuild and initial communications may be slightly degraded.

/* ALE Address and Station Chart */
/* Includes "Note: Station McClellan renamed West Coast." */

(d) HF Data Service. All HFGCS stations have HF data access to AUTODIN/NOVA and SACCS. HF Radio Teletype requirement has been removed by Joint Staff J6.
(e) Command and Control Mission Following. C2 agencies can use the HFGCS for mission tracking/control of their aircraft. Aircraft responsible to a C2 agency for mission tracking/control should transmit an initial contact/departure report to a Global HF System station after takeoff. The following information should be included:
- Aircraft Call Sign
- Departure point and time
- Destination point and ETA
- Relay Instructions for C2 Agencies
- Remarks: DV codes, special instructions, etc.
d. EMERGENCY ACTION MESSAGE (EAM) BROADCASTS - Most HFGCS stations transmit high priority EAMs on published frequencies during specific broadcast periods. During EAM broadcast periods, aircraft may only transmit In-Flight Emergency traffic.
e. EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE - Distress and urgency situations should be clearly identified by the words "MAYDAY" or "PAN" as appropriate (refer ACP 121 US Supp 2, Ch 8 for definitive usage). Users should transmit present position and heading when encountering grave or serious emergency situations.
f. HF DIRECTION FINDING (DF) ASSISTANCE - HFGCS stations are capable of coordinating DF efforts between aircraft and direction finding facilities for both emergency situations and suspected spectrum interference location efforts.
(1) Emergency DF Requests. Aircraft requiring DF support should advise the HFGCS station of the nature of the emergency, a bearing (steer) or a position (fix). The HFGCS operator will arrange the support and ask the aircraft to transmit a slow count from 1 to 10 and back, followed by the aircraft call sign. The aircraft should then standby for further instructions and/or results of the service. DF facility response time will vary, depending on operating conditions, location of the aircraft, nature of request, prevailing DF facility operating commitments, type of
DF facility providing the service and coordination of all concerned. The average response time is estimated at four minutes for bearings and ten minutes for positions after the slow count.
(2) DF Support for Suspected Spectrum Interference. Aircraft experiencing spectrum interference may obtain DF fix information on source of interference by calling the nearest HFGCS station and requesting Spectrum Interference DF support. The aircraft will advise the Global stations of the frequency affected, type of interference (Voice, Morse Code, Printer, Noise, etc.) and request a read-back of the information passed. A report will be filed in accordance with AFI 10-707 by the aircrew upon landing. The Andrews CNCS will report Spectrum Interference DF results via message to the AF Frequency Management Agency and the aircraft unit command post.
g. ATC SUPPORT - HFGCS is not configured to meet ATC communications routing requirements and cannot provide ATC flight following service. This service can be obtained through the appropriate Civil/ICAO ATC communications agency such as the AREA CONTROL CENTER, SECTOR RADIO, or FLIGHT INFORMATION CENTER (see section B, ICAO HF Aeronautical Station List). Global HF stations will accept emergency ATC traffic and provide phone patch or message relay support as required.
h. FLIGHT WATCH SUPPORT - The Royal Air Force (RAF) Flight Watch (FW) Centers are:
(1) The RAF FW mission is to United Kingdom FW station provides United States High Frequency (HF) aircraft support to relay command and control messages. Respond to aircraft distress/emergency calls. In addition, assistance with request for or relay of weather information.
Reference: Internet http://www.aidu.mod.uk/
(2) Phone patches can be provided (where available) to DSN numbers. Aircraft requesting this facility will be required to provide their 10-digit DSN number.

NOTE: There is 24 hour manned operations center at DHFCS Forest Moor and DHFCS Kinloss.

United Kingdom (TASCOMM)
Voice Call Sign: ARCHITECT
Frequency: 4742
5702
9031
11247
13257
18018
NOTE: Long range HF communications FW for RAF/Naval aircraft from 24 hour manned operations center at DHFCS Forest Moor and DHFCS Kinloss.

Special services contact: DHFCS on Forest Moor on UK MIL 93405 Ext 4240
DHFCS Kinloss on UK MIL 95131 Ext 7472

Ascension
Voice Call Sign: TAZCOMM
Frequency: 3146
4742
6733
11247
NOTE: Flight Watch available for notified flights.
Cyprus
Voice Call Sign: CYPRUS
Frequency: Channel 1 - 4742 (a)
Channel 2 - 9031
Channel 3 - 11247
NOTE: (a) H+15 weather broadcasts, when active.
Mount Pleasant (MPA)
Voice Call Sign: VIPER
Frequency: 4742 (a)
11247 (a)
NOTE: (a) H+35 weather broadcasts when active.
1. Flight Watch available for notified flights.
2. Aircraft not fitted with ALE are to scroll through the frequencies in order to select the best
reception. Transmissions are to be made at 15 sec intervals before changing to the next guard
frequency.
i. Points of Contact:
(1) System Management - Questions or feedback concerning service or system access
should be addressed to AFPSC CYSS/DOO, 203 W. Losey St. RM 3600, Scott AFB, IL 62225-5222,
DSN 779-5749, COMM 618-229-5749.
(2) CNCS Operations – For immediate HF assistance, contact the 89 CS, Joint Base Andrews, MD at DSN 858-3109/5333 or Comm 301-981-3109/5333.

Source 20: About VQ-4

• https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/Fleet-Air-Reconnaissance-Squadron-VQ-4/About-Us/
• Part of Strategic Communication Wing 1, VQ-4 supports the TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission providing airborne communications links to strategic forces.
• Mission: Support the TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission providing airborne communications links to strategic forces.

The TACAMO mission began in 1961 as a test program to determine if an airborne Very Low Frequency (VLF) communications system was feasible. Weapons Systems Test Division conducted this program, using a U.S. Marine Corps KC-130 aircraft as a test vehicle.  The overwhelming success of the test program prompted funding for the first production aircraft.  The project was designated TACAMO, which stands for “Take Charge and Move Out.”
 
In order to avoid long lead-time delays, four U. S. Air Force C-130 aircraft were taken from the production line in early 1963.  After extensive modification, the aircraft was designated a C-130G.  The first of these aircraft, BUNO 151890, was delivered on 26 December 1963.  At that time, the communications equipment consisted of removable vans that could be installed in a matter of hours.  Plans were formulated in 1966 to expand the TACAMO Program.  The expansion included permanently installing the communications suites in eight aircraft and their designation as EC-130Qs.  On 1 July 1968, VQ-4 was established at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a permanent operational squadron.
 
In 1974, the next major aircraft modification incorporated a new power amplifier, a dual trailing wire antenna system and a high-speed reel system for deploying and retracting of the trailing wire antennas.  Additional improvements included satellite communications and an enhanced VLF capability.
 
In the 1980s, it was recognized that the C-130s, in some cases the oldest in the fleet, were in need of replacement.   The hunt was on for the successor to “The Mighty Herc.”  Eventually, the B707-320 airframe was chosen, modified extensively and designated the E-6A.  The Navy E-6s were the last 16 aircraft to roll off of Boeing’s venerable 707 line after 30 years of production.
 
On 25 January 1991, VQ-4 took delivery of its first E-6A Mercury aircraft and in November 1992, changed homeport to Tinker AFB, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.  On 20 September 1999, VQ-4 took delivery of its first E-6B.  The E-6B contains upgraded systems that enable it to perform the USSTRATCOM Airborne Command Post (ABNCP) “Looking Glass” mission.  Upgrades include:  a Battle staff module to provide enhanced command, control and communications for the Nation’s nuclear arsenal; the Airborne Launch Control System to permit airborne launch and control of ICBMs; UHF C3 Radio Subsystem; Digital Airborne Intercommunications Switching System; MILSTAR Airborne Terminal System (Satellite communications) and a High Power Transmit Set for enhanced communications.
 
Since its commissioning, VQ-4 evolved into a Squadron of approximately 400 Officers and Enlisted personnel making it one of the largest operational aviation squadrons in the Navy.  Indeed, their extraordinary dedication to operational excellence resulted in the Squadron surpassing 42 years and 380,000 flight hours of Class A mishap-free operations.

Source 21: About VQ-3

• https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/Fleet-Air-Reconnaissance-Squadron-VQ-3/About-Us/
• Part of Strategic Communication Wing 1, VQ-3 supports the TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission providing airborne communications links to strategic forces.
• Mission: Support the TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission providing airborne communications links to strategic forces.

“TACAMO” Take Charge And Move Out. These words exemplify the project intended to support an airborne fleet communications broadcast system.

History
By 1962, this project progressed from the planning, research, and feasibility stages to the first successful airborne very low frequency (VLF) tests conducted in the Pacific.  TACAMOPAC began in 1964 with the delivery of two Lockheed EC-130G aircraft to VR-21 based at NAS Barbers Point.  In 1966, following initial tests, the aircraft were reassigned to VW-l at NAS Agana, Guam.  After modifying equipment and perfecting the VLF mission, the decision was made to establish two permanent TACAMO squadrons.  VQ-3 was commissioned at NAS Agana on 1 July 1968 as the “Ironman Squadron.”
 
In June 1969, VQ-3 accepted delivery of the last of its original assignment of new EC-130Q aircraft and completed the transition from the original TACAMO II system to the permanently installed TACAMO III system, providing vastly improved in-flight maintenance capability and crew comforts.  By October 1976, VQ-3 had converted all aircraft to the newer dual trailing wire antenna TACAMO IV system with greatly increased communications performance.

On 1 August 1981, after a 15-year absence, VQ-3 returned to its original home at NAS Barbers Point.  During a period of rapid growth from 1981 through 1983, the squadron grew from 250 to 650 personnel, took delivery of five new production EC-130Q aircraft, and increased its operational tempo beyond 1,000 monthly flight hours. On 1 October 1983, VQ-3 stood up to its tasking by providing 100% airborne communications coverage for the Pacific region in support of JCS and USCINCPAC strategic missions.

On 15 April 1988, VQ-3 Detachment Travis AFB, CA was established to provide a permanent facility to support the VQ-3 Ready Alert and other forward deployed aircraft.  In 1989 and 1990, VQ-3 executed a no-stand-down transition from the EC-130Q to the E-6A Mercury, the Navy’s largest and first aircraft designed and built for the TACAMO mission. August of 1990 marked the retirement of the last EC-130 and exclusive E-6A operations.

In March 1992, the “Ironman” squadron began a no-stand-down move to Tinker AFB, Oklahoma.  Throughout the move, the “Ironmen” of VQ-3 continued to lead the community, carrying on the tradition to “Take Charge And Move Out!” On 30 September 1992, Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron THREE officially changed its homeport to Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 

VQ-3 led the changing of the guard from the E-6A Mercury to the greatly enhanced E-6B. In October 1997, the first Bravo model arrived at Tinker AFB, OK.VQ-3 led the changing of the guard from the E-6A Mercury to the greatly enhanced E-6B. In October 1997, the first Bravo model arrived at Tinker AFB, OK. The improved E-6B enabled assumption of the U.S. Strategic Command Airborne Command Post mission allowing embarked battlestaff to exercise command and control of the nuclear triad. The multi-mission E-6Bs officially assumed the “Looking Glass” mission from the Air Force on 1 October 1998. TACAMO now serves beyond its original strategic role, successfully completing missions in support of USCENTCOM, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, and the Office of Homeland Defense. As VQ-3 continues its outstanding tradition of mission readiness and commitment to community service, the “Ironmen” will continue to meet future challenges and set the pace for naval aviation.

Source 22: About VQ-7

• https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/Fleet-Air-Reconnaissance-Squadron-VQ-7/About-Us/
• Part of Strategic Communication Wing 1, VQ-7 is a Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) that provides a constant flow of highly qualified aircrew to VQ-3 and VQ-4 in support of the TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission of airborne communications links to nuclear missile units of United States Strategic Command.
• Mission: Provide a constant flow of highly qualified aircrew to VQ-3 and VQ-4 in support of the TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission of airborne communications links to strategic forces.

The E-6 utilized by the TACAMO community is the Navy’s largest aircraft.  Nicknamed Mercury, the E-6 was built for the Navy by Boeing as a replacement for the invincible EC-130 Hercules that had provided 30 years of faithful service.  The initial model, the E-6A, was a dedicated airborne communications relay platform whose sole mission was to communicate with ballistic missile submarines.

The E-6A completed a modification to upgrade the communications equipment, adding Airborne Command Post capabilities.  The modified aircraft, the E-6B, replaced the EC-135 in performing the “Looking Glass” mission flown for over 29 years by the U.S. Air Force.  The expanded role of TACAMO provides the President and the Secretary of Defense direct command and control capability with America’s “nuclear triad” of nuclear missile submarines, intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), and strategic bombers.

With the additional mission tasking came increased training requirements.  The TACAMO community was required to expand its training program to include all aircrew positions.  Formerly known as the Naval Training Support Unit, and established as a fleet replacement squadron on 11 February 2000, VQ-7 is the aircrew training command of Strategic Communications Wing 1.  The goal of the VQ-7 Roughnecks is to provide a constant flow of highly qualified aircrew to TACAMO’s operational squadrons, VQ-3 and VQ-4.

VQ-7 accepts students from initial entry, advanced training pipelines, or from other U.S. Navy fleet platforms.  These students are tasked with completing four to twelve months of rigorous training, ensuring proficiency in their respective aviation specialties.  Only after mastering their syllabus and passing final evaluations will they be sent to the operational squadrons to serve as aircrew on the E-6B.

To accomplish this training and provide the fleet with the best possible product, an elite handpicked corps of instructors and staff work nearly around the clock.  VQ-7 uses a myriad of tools to execute aircrew training, including classrooms, laboratories, E-6B aircraft, full motion high fidelity flight simulators, weapons systems trainers, and various computer-based training aids.  In addition, as the E-6B model manager, VQ-7 is charged with ensuring training and operational standardization among all users of the E-6B aircraft weapons system.

The foundation of an effective force is always solid training, and training begins, and continues, with the Roughnecks of VQ-7.  Adapting daily with the ever-changing threat to our nation’s defenses, the professionals of VQ-7 stand ready to train the next generation of our country’s servicemen and women.