About this Unit
Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility, San Diego (FACSFAC San Diego), was established in 1972 to provide airspace management, control, and surveillance services for military training and operations off the Southern California coast. Originally formed to support the growing need for safe and coordinated use of increasingly congested military and civilian airspace, FACSFAC San Diego became a critical command and control facility for naval and joint exercises, missile tests, and fleet training events. Over the years, the unit has adapted to evolving technologies and operational demands, ensuring seamless coordination between air, surface, and subsurface forces. Today, FACSFAC San Diego continues to play a vital role in maintaining readiness and safety for U.S. and allied forces operating in the Pacific region.
Historical Facts
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FACSFAC Stands for Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility: FACSFAC San Diego is a critical Navy facility responsible for controlling and surveilling military airspace off the Southern California coast.
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Established in 1972: FACSFAC San Diego was commissioned in 1972 to provide a dedicated command for managing the increasingly complex airspace used by the Pacific Fleet’s aviation units.
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“Giant Killer” Call Sign: Like its Atlantic counterpart, FACSFAC San Diego uses the call sign “Giant Killer” on radio frequencies, a name known to countless aviators.
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Supports Multiple Military Branches: Although a Navy unit, FACSFAC San Diego manages airspace and range scheduling for Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and even allied foreign aircraft.
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Oversees the Southern California Offshore Range Complex: The unit manages a vast training area stretching from Point Mugu in the north to the Mexican border in the south, including both air and sea ranges.
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Key Role in Carrier Air Wing Workups: FACSFAC San Diego coordinates complex exercises, including live-fire training and simulated combat, for carrier strike groups preparing for deployment.
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24/7 Operations: The facility operates around the clock, supporting not only routine training but also urgent search and rescue, humanitarian, and national security missions.
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Supports Unmanned Systems: In recent years, FACSFAC San Diego has integrated the management of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other autonomous systems in its airspace.
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Vital in Major Exercises: The unit frequently supports large-scale military exercises such as RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise) and COMPTUEX (Composite Training Unit Exercise).
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Unique “Sky Boss” Tradition: The Officer-in-Charge is often referred to as the “Sky Boss,” a nod to the authority and responsibility of managing some of the world’s busiest and most complex military airspace.