Space Force Looks to L3Harris for Counter-Communications Systems

Nov. 5, 2021

Counter-communications systems (CCS) are ground-based systems capable of jamming signals from a satellite link as needed, with reversible operation.

Jack Browne

Related To: Microwaves & RF

At times, the global availability of satellite communications (satcom) can serve as part of an adversary’s weaponry; for that reason, L3Harris Technologies has won a sizeable contract from the U.S. Space Force to stop enemy satcom signals. The $121 million contract is for the upgrade of 16 secure counter-communications weapons that can deny an adversary’s satcom links.

The counter-communications systems (CCS) can help safeguard troops in space and on the ground (see the figure). A ground-based CCS can jam an enemy’s satellite signals with reversible effects, restoring a satcom to proper operation when needed. The CCS installations are equipped with remote control and full data processing power as well as wide spectrum-scanning capabilities to check for the presence of threat signals.

The 16 CCS installations to be upgraded are at Peterson Space Force Base, CO; Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA; Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, FL; and at classified locations outside the continental U. S. Work on the contract will be performed at Melbourne, FL and is expected to be completed by February 28, 2025. Space Systems Command, Los Angeles Air Force Base (El Segundo, CA) is the contracting agency.

About the Author

Jack Browne | Technical Contributor

Jack Browne, Technical Contributor, has worked in technical publishing for over 30 years. He managed the content and production of three technical journals while at the American Institute of Physics, including Medical Physics and the Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. He has been a Publisher and Editor for Penton Media, started the firm’s Wireless Symposium & Exhibition trade show in 1993, and currently serves as Technical Contributor for that company's Microwaves & RF magazine. Browne, who holds a BS in Mathematics from City College of New York and BA degrees in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, is a member of the IEEE.