Counter Communications System Block 10.2 ready for use by U.S. Space and Missile Force.

The first offensive weapon system in the United States Space Force - the Counter Communications System Block 10.2 – achieved Initial Operating Capability on March 9, providing quick reaction capability with direct operational support to the warfighter.

Airmen from the 4th Space Control Squadron take a picture in front of the Counter Communications System Block 10.2 on March 12 on Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. The 4th SPCS received the B10.2 from the Space and Missile Systems Center on Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., making it the first offensive weapon system assigned to the United States Space Force (Picture source: U.S. Air Force/Airman 1st Class Andrew Bertain)

A new version of a ground-based communications jammer – the Counter Communications System Block 10.2 – used to block adversaries’ satellite transmissions is ready to be used in combat operations. Space and Missile Systems Center’s Special Programs directorate and the 4th Space Control Squadron held a ceremony on March 12 to commemorate this historic event handing over a key to symbolize the transfer of responsibility from the space program office to the space operations unit at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado.

The Counter Communications System, first introduced in 2004, is a transportable space electronic warfare system that reversibly denies adversary satellite communications developed in partnership with L3Harris.Col. Stephen Purdy, SMC Special Programs director, said the benefits of CCS to deployed forces and warfighters cannot be overstated.

L3Harris is the prime contractor for both versions 10.1 and 10.2. SMC said the newest update includes more frequency bands and other features to give operators more options to disrupt enemies’ satellite communications.

Air National Guard units in California, Colorado and Florida and Air Force active-duty units like the 4th Space Control Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base, use the CCS. Members of the Air National Guard, including some who are also civilian employees of L3Harris, worked alongside active-duty counterparts at SMC and the 721st Operations Group to test and deliver a cutting-edge space electronic warfare system since January. The system will continue to be updated using agile software development methods, Col. Stephen Purdy, SMC special programs director, said in a statement.