Survivable Low
Frequency Communications System (SLFCS)
The Survivable Low Frequency Communications System (SLFCS), a component of the Minimum Essential Emergency Communications Network (MEECN), is a system capable of transmitting and / or receiving secure, low data rate messages during pre,-trans-, and post attack scenarios. SLFCS provides a reliable and secure communications system in the event of nuclear attack using the Very Low Frequency/Low Frequency (VLF/LF) (14-60kHz) portion of the spectrum for Minuteman and Peacekeeper LCCs in both normal and in nuclear and/or jammed environments. SLFCS was developed in the 1960’s and called 487L. In the 1970’s an upgrade was added and called 616A. Both phases were done by Westinghouse. Because it operates in the VLF/LF bands and uses a buried antenna, SLFCS is a survivable system. However the extremely slow speed of message reception in this band means that it cannot be considered a timely system. In addition, its lack of a transmit capability means that it is not useable for force report-back messages. The Very Low Frequency/Low Frequency (VLF/LF) and Strategic Automated Command and Control System (SACCS) communication paths will remain critical components of strategic command and control. The requirement to upgrade the Survivable Low Frequency Communications System (SLFCS) receivers with Modified Miniature Receive Terminals (MMRTs) is associated with upgrading the timing and availability of the second survivable EAM path.
Sources and Resources
http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/usa/c3i/slfcs.htm
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Updated Thursday, December 03, 1998 9:27:03 AM
