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History of USCG Electronics Engineering Center

The USCG Electronics Engineering Center (EECEN), based in Wildwood, New Jersey, has served as the United States Coast Guard’s primary facility for electronics engineering, maintenance, and technical support since its establishment in 1970. Originally created to consolidate and advance the Coast Guard’s electronics capabilities, EECEN became pivotal in developing, testing, and sustaining communication, navigation, and surveillance systems vital for maritime safety and security. Over the decades, the center has played a crucial role in modernizing Coast Guard assets, supporting both shore-based and afloat units with state-of-the-art electronics technology and expertise. EECEN continues to provide engineering solutions, system integration, and lifecycle support, ensuring the operational readiness of Coast Guard missions worldwide.

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ABOUT USCG Electronics Engineering Center

  • Origins in World War II: The roots of the USCG Electronics Engineering Center (EECEN) date back to the technological needs of the Coast Guard during World War II, when maintaining and innovating navigation and communications systems became crucial for mission success.
  • Location: The EECEN is located in Wildwood, New Jersey, on the site of the former Naval Air Station Wildwood, which gives it both historical and strategic significance.
  • Mission Focus: EECEN’s primary mission is to provide engineering support for the Coast Guard’s electronic systems, including aids to navigation, command and control, and communications systems.
  • LORAN-C Expertise: For decades, the EECEN served as the technical authority for the Long Range Navigation (LORAN-C) system, a critical navigation aid for both military and civilian vessels and aircraft before the widespread use of GPS.
  • Role in GPS Transition: EECEN played a key role in the Coast Guard’s transition from LORAN-C to the Global Positioning System (GPS), ensuring the seamless modernization of navigational aids.
  • Support for Aids to Navigation: The center provides engineering support for 50,000+ aids to navigation used by the Coast Guard, ensuring the safety of maritime traffic in U.S. waters.
  • Innovations in Rescue Technology: EECEN engineers have contributed to the development and maintenance of the Rescue 21 system, the Coast Guard’s advanced coastal communications network for distress calls.
  • Electronics Testing Lab: The center hosts specialized labs for testing and certifying Coast Guard equipment under various environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures and humidity.
  • Collaboration with Other Agencies: EECEN collaborates with other military branches, the Department of Homeland Security, and agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration on navigation and communications projects.
  • Historic Preservation: The EECEN campus includes buildings and infrastructure from the WWII era, and the unit actively participates in preserving its historical legacy while supporting the Coast Guard’s modern missions.

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