Minimum Essential Emergency Communications Network (MEECN)

The Minimum Essential Emergency Communications Network (MEECN) program is a critical Air Force initiative focused on ensuring survivable, secure, and resilient communications between national leadership and strategic deterrence forces, particularly in stressed or contested environments. The overarching goal of MEECN is to modernize and sustain the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) systems that underpin the United States' nuclear deterrence posture. This program supports the Air Force's Nuclear Deterrence Operations (NDO) core function by providing assured connectivity for the transmission of Emergency Action Messages (EAMs) and other critical communications.

MEECN System Improvements (MSI) is a long-range planning and analysis effort involving multiple stakeholders, including Air Force Global Strike Command, Air Combat Command, United States Space Force, Air Mobility Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, United States Strategic Command, and the US Navy. The objectives of MSI are to monitor and assess the performance of existing NC3 systems, identify areas for technological upgrades, and develop recommendations for future architecture enhancements. MSI activities include technology testing, modeling, cybersecurity evaluations, mission analysis, and the development of technology roadmaps to proactively support NC3 modernization. The program also funds studies and prototyping efforts related to integration with the Advanced Battle Management System and Joint All-Domain Command and Control.

Common VLF/LF Receiver Increment 2 (CVRi2) is a key modernization effort aimed at developing and fielding a new, advanced Very Low Frequency/Low Frequency receiver for all ground and airborne NC3 platforms. The program leverages a Modular Open Systems Approach and incorporates Cryptographic Modernization 2.0 standards. The VLF Enterprise Program Office is responsible for sustainment, configuration management, and integration of these receivers across legacy and future platforms, including the B-52. Planned activities include completing the acquisition strategy, releasing requests for proposals, conducting technical evaluations, and continuing risk reduction and prototyping to ensure the new receiver meets evolving NC3 requirements.

Force Element Terminal (FAB-T FET) is designed to replace the legacy Ultra High Frequency Milstar terminals with advanced, survivable Military Satellite Communication terminals. FAB-T FET provides secure, anti-jam, low probability of detection/intercept communications for nuclear and non-nuclear missions, with interoperability across multiple satellite constellations such as AEHF, EPS-R, and ESS. Planned efforts support continued development, integration, and testing of prototype terminals, including reliability growth testing, environmental and functional qualification, and early integration on the B-52 platform. The program is transitioning from a Middle Tier Acquisition approach to a Major Capability Acquisition pathway to support broader fielding and production.

Global Aircrew Strategic Network Terminal Increment 2 (Global ASNT Inc 2) focuses on replacing outdated strategic communications equipment at bomber, tanker, and reconnaissance Wing Command Posts, Nuclear Task Forces, and Mobile Support Teams. This ground-based system is designed to provide survivable, secure communications for the dissemination of EAMs and other critical messages. Global ASNT Inc 2 is being fielded in two capability blocks: Block 1 delivers a new Aircrew Alerting System with UHF communications, replacing legacy EMP-hardened systems, while Block 2 introduces High Frequency Beyond Line of Sight capabilities. Planned efforts include redesign, redevelopment, regression and vibration testing for Block 1, and acquisition planning for Block 2.

Each of these MEECN subprograms is justified by the need to address aging infrastructure, evolving threats including cyber and electromagnetic pulse, and the imperative to maintain assured, resilient NC3 communications. The programs are coordinated with multiple agencies and commands, and leverage partnerships with Federally Funded Research and Development Centers and University Affiliated Research Centers for technical support. Acquisition strategies emphasize rapid prototyping, risk reduction, and transition to full production to ensure timely delivery of enhanced capabilities.