Worldwide Joint Strategic Communications

The Worldwide Joint Strategic Communications program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0101316F, is a critical Air Force initiative focused on the research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) of advanced Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) systems. The primary objective of this program is to ensure the continued reliability, security, and modernization of strategic communications capabilities that support the U.S. nuclear deterrent and overall national security. The program is funded under Budget Activity 7, which is dedicated to the operational systems development of fielded systems or those approved for full-rate production.

A major line item within this program is the Strategic Automated Command and Control System (SACCS). SACCS is a high-speed, multi-level secure data transmission and processing system that serves as the primary non-survivable command and control capability for receiving and disseminating secure Emergency Action Messages (EAM), Force Direction Messages (FDM), Force Status Reporting (FSR), and other critical communications from U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM). The system supports the effective deployment of strategic bombers, reconnaissance aircraft, mobilization aircraft, tanker support aircraft, and the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) force, including Minuteman III and Sentinel systems.

The SACCS Replacement (SACCS-R) project is a central focus of current and future funding. The goal of SACCS-R is to replace legacy SACCS components that have reached end-of-life and are no longer repairable due to parts obsolescence and diminished manufacturing sources. This modernization effort is essential to maintaining compliance with Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Nuclear Technical Performance Criteria and Operational Standards (CJCSI 6811.01) and to mitigate risks associated with system failure or cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

SACCS-R is currently in the Technology Maturation and Risk Reduction (TMRR) phase. Objectives include transitioning the system architecture from Time-Division Multiplexing (TDM) to Internet Protocol (IP), enhancing cybersecurity, improving system reliability and availability, and reducing annual sustainment costs. The new architecture will also provide improved user interfaces and address obsolescence challenges. Additionally, SACCS-R will support integration with Sentinel through the Sentinel NC3 Terrestrial Integration (SNTI) initiative.

Key planned activities for FY 2025 and FY 2026 include continued development of connectivity via Air Force and Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) networks, modernization of network management tools, and the development of a Network Operations Center/Security Operations Center (NOC/SOC). The program will also focus on mainframe modernization, network node upgrades, and ongoing support for Risk Management Framework (RMF) policies and procedures to ensure robust cybersecurity postures.

The program leverages both organic Air Force resources, such as the 595th Strategic Communications Squadron (595 SCS) and the 38th Cyberspace Engineering Installation Group (38 CEIG), and competitive industry contracts for capability development and integration. The acquisition strategy is being updated to align with evolving requirements and to support incremental capability delivery through FY 2030.