About this Unit
United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) was established on June 1, 1992, following the end of the Cold War, as a successor to the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM). Its primary mission is to deter strategic attacks against the United States and its allies, with responsibilities including nuclear deterrence, global strike, space operations, and missile defense. Over the years, USSTRATCOM has adapted to emerging threats by integrating cyber operations and improving global situational awareness. Headquartered at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, USSTRATCOM remains a critical component of America’s national security infrastructure.
Historical Facts
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Origins: US Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) was activated on June 1, 1992, succeeding the Cold War-era Strategic Air Command (SAC) and consolidating US nuclear command and control under one unified command.
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Location: USSTRATCOM headquarters is situated at Offutt Air Force Base near Omaha, Nebraska, a site chosen for its distance from coastal threats during the Cold War.
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Global Mission: USSTRATCOM’s responsibilities include strategic deterrence, nuclear operations, global strike, missile defense, and combating weapons of mass destruction.
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Expanded Role: In addition to nuclear deterrence, STRATCOM at one point oversaw cyber operations, space operations, and intelligence, until US Cyber Command and US Space Command became separate unified commands.
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“Looking Glass”: During the Cold War, airborne command posts known as “Looking Glass” operated 24/7 from Offutt to ensure survivable command and control of nuclear forces in event of attack.
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Control of Nuclear Triad: STRATCOM is the only US military command that controls all three legs of the nuclear triad: land-based missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and strategic bombers.
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Global Operations Center: The Global Operations Center (GOC) at Offutt AFB is the nerve center for monitoring worldwide strategic threats and managing US nuclear forces.
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Key Role on 9/11: President George W. Bush was flown to Offutt AFB and used STRATCOM’s secure facilities to coordinate national response during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
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International Partnerships: STRATCOM works closely with allied nations, including the UK, Australia, and Canada, to coordinate nuclear deterrence and global security missions.
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STRATCOM Coin: Like many military units, STRATCOM has its own challenge coin, which is a symbol of pride and camaraderie for those who serve or visit the command.
