About this Unit
The STRATCOM Communication Command, originally established as part of the United States Air Force, played a crucial role in providing global communications support for the Strategic Air Command (SAC) during the Cold War. Activated in 1952 as the Air Force Communications Service (AFCS), it was later designated as the Strategic Communications Command (STRATCOM) in 1970 to better reflect its mission of maintaining secure, reliable command and control links for America’s nuclear deterrence forces. STRATCOM Communication Command managed a vast network of ground, air, and satellite communications, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity between national command authorities and strategic forces. In 1992, following the deactivation of SAC and the creation of United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), many of STRATCOM Communication Command’s functions were realigned under new organizational structures.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The lineage of STRATCOM’s Communication Command traces back to the Army Airways Communications System (AACS) established during World War II, providing critical global communications for Allied air operations.
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Cold War Role: As the military’s global communication needs expanded during the Cold War, the command evolved to manage and secure worldwide command and control communications, particularly for nuclear deterrence and strategic operations.
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Global Network: At its height, the STRATCOM Communication Command managed thousands of personnel and operated facilities in more than 100 countries, making it one of the largest communications organizations in the world.
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Strategic Communications: The command was responsible for ensuring reliable, secure communication links for the U.S. President, National Command Authorities, and military leaders, including the infamous “red phone” hotline to the Soviet Union.
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Digital Pioneers: The unit was at the forefront of adopting digital and satellite communications, playing a key role in the development and deployment of the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS).
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Supporting Space Missions: STRATCOM Communication Command units supported NASA’s Apollo missions and other early space ventures by providing tracking, telemetry, and communications support.
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Vietnam War Contributions: During the Vietnam War, the command established and maintained complex communications networks in Southeast Asia, often under hostile conditions, ensuring command and control for U.S. and allied forces.
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Transition to Modern Commands: In the 1990s, as the military reorganized, the STRATCOM Communication Command’s functions were absorbed into new commands such as the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) and U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM).
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Legacy of Innovation: Many of the modern military’s secure voice, data, and satellite communications systems owe their origins to programs initiated by the STRATCOM Communication Command.
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Unsung Heroes: The personnel of STRATCOM Communication Command often worked behind the scenes, but their work was vital to national security—ensuring that critical information could flow, even in times of crisis or war.
