Current as of January 25, 2023
MISSION
The High Frequency Global Communications System (HFGCS) provides a robust and resilient high frequency 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).
BACKGROUND
HFGCS was created in 1993 by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) Memo MCM-10-93 directing the consolidation of DoD's high power (1KW and above) fixed site HF capabilities on a world wide systems and mission basis. The result 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 Air Force locations are operated and maintained by 4 Air Force MAJCOMS (ACC, AMC, PACAF and USAFE) and U.S. Space Force. HFGCS was declared fully operational in 2001.