About this Unit
Naval Communication Station Guam (NAVCOMMSTA Guam) was established in 1944 following the liberation of Guam during World War II, serving as a vital communications hub for the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. Throughout the Cold War, the station played a crucial role in long-range radio communications, supporting both fleet operations and strategic command-and-control functions across the Pacific theater. NAVCOMMSTA Guam was notable for operating powerful transmitters and large antenna arrays, including the iconic AN/FRD-10 Circularly Disposed Antenna Array. In 1997, the command was reorganized and its functions integrated into Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Guam, continuing its mission of providing secure communications support to U.S. and allied forces in the region.
Historical Facts
• World War II Origins: The Naval Communications Station Guam (NAVCOMMSTA Guam) originated during World War II after the island's liberation from Japanese forces in 1944, serving as a critical communications hub in the Pacific.
• Strategic Pacific Location: Located on the island of Guam, the station played a vital role due to its proximity to Asia and its ability to relay messages throughout the Pacific theater.
• Operation Magic Carpet: Post-WWII, NAVCOMMSTA Guam coordinated communications for Operation Magic Carpet, which repatriated thousands of American servicemembers from the Pacific.
• Cold War Significance: During the Cold War, the station was a key part of the U.S. military’s global communications network, linking the Pentagon with forward-deployed units and intelligence centers.
• Submarine Communications: Guam's facility was crucial for communicating with U.S. Navy submarines, particularly those carrying nuclear missiles (SSBNs), through very low frequency (VLF) transmissions.
• Operation Frequent Wind: The station played a significant role in Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of Saigon in 1975, by relaying urgent communications to and from the evacuation forces.
• Massive Antenna Fields: The station was famous for its sprawling antenna farms, including the "elephant cage" AN/FLR-9 circular antenna used for high-frequency direction finding and signals intelligence.
• Typhoon Survivors: NAVCOMMSTA Guam weathered numerous typhoons; the station’s robust construction and dedicated personnel kept communications running even during devastating storms like Typhoon Karen in 1962.
• Transition to NCTAMS: In 1999, NAVCOMMSTA Guam was redesignated as the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station (NCTAMS) Western Pacific, reflecting its modernized communications mission.
• Local Community Impact: The presence of NAVCOMMSTA Guam has had a significant economic and social influence on Guam, employing thousands of local residents and fostering enduring ties with the Chamorro community.
