Current as of December 1, 2025
MISSION
The High Frequency Global Communications System (HFGCS) provides a robust and resilient non-satellite high frequency
radio command and control (C2) network to nuclear, conventional, and special forces on land, air and sea. Major
customers: President of the United States (POTUS); United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM); United States
Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM); U.S. Space Force; United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM);
(United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM); National Command Authority; Air Force Global Strike Command
(AFGSC); Air Mobility Command (AMC); Navy Submarine & Fleet Forces; and intelligence, surveillance, and
reconnaissance (ISR) (P-8, E-3, & U-2).
BACKGROUND
HFGCS was created in 1993 by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) Memo MCM-10-93 directing consolidation
of DoD's high power (1KW and above) fixed site HF capabilities and declared fully operational in 2001. The results was a
13-station global network jointly owned by the Air Force and Navy, with the Air Force designated as Lead MILDEP. The Air
Force controls 8.5 stations and both Network Control Stations, while the Navy controls 4.5 stations. There is a
memorandum of agreement between the two services outlining roles and responsibilities. The Department of the Air Force
(DAF) locations are operated and maintained by United States Space Force, and 4 Air Force MAJCOMS (ACC, AMC,
PACAF and USAFE).