Transcontinental Cable System ["L System"]
The Transcontinental Cable System was developed by ATT Longlines to
support defense related communications during the cold war period. The system was deployed in five sequential configurations, designated L-1 through L-5. The system provided hard wire communications paths for key command and control facilities in the continental United States.
Beginning with the L-4 build, the network was designed to withstand a nuclear attack. The "L" system consisted of over
100 "Main Stations" and 1000 repeater vaults, each designed to withstand a nuclear environment. Main stations also were designed complete with generators, blast doors and housing to sustain the staff for a two-week post-attack period. Most of the system was dismantled in the late 1970's and early 1980's as ground based communications networks were replaced by satellite systems.
Sources and Resources
http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/usa/c3i/tcs.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Tuesday, December 01, 1998 5:57:03 AM
