Meadowlands is designed to detect, deny, disrupt and degrade adversary capabilities in active defense of joint force objectives. The U.S. Space Force described it as a critical upgrade to the Counter Communications System 10.2.
The service said the system advances the Department of War’s reversible and non-reversible capabilities. It also said Meadowlands further secures the invisible frontline on the electromagnetic spectrum.
The system is operated by Guardians from Combat Forces Command’s Mission Delta 3 – Space Electromagnetic Warfare. Mission Delta 3 is responsible for organizing, training and equipping space electromagnetic warfare professionals for presentation to combatant commanders, including U.S. Space Command, in support of joint force operations.
“We have exceptionally trained and skilled electromagnetic warfare professionals who are highly motivated and excited about integrating this new Meadowlands capability. This upgraded system enables us to more effectively and efficiently support the joint scheme of maneuver across the continuum of conflict,” said U.S. Space Force Lt. Col. Ryan Skilling, 4th Electromagnetic Warfare Squadron commander.
The U.S. Space Force said space electromagnetic warfare systems and the Guardians who operate them have demonstrated strategic value in joint force operations. It cited Operation Midnight Hammer, where electromagnetic warfare professionals created a silence zone to help ensure secure bomber ingress and egress by halting adversary communications and providing vital indications and warnings.
Meadowlands is intended to help the Space Force meet current and future threats. The service said the system advances remote capabilities that allow Guardians to operate in forward austere environments and from secure rear echelons.
“Our Guardians are at the forefront of joint operations, so we are fielding capability that best enables their success and the success of the joint force,” said U.S. Space Force Col. Angelo Fernandez, commander of Mission Delta 3 – Space Electromagnetic Warfare. “Every day, Space Force electromagnetic warfare forces become better organized, trained, equipped, and mentally prepared to operate in hostile environments.”
“We’re continuously pursuing capability modifications to modernize our fleet and better enable our Guardians as they execute missions on behalf of the combatant command and in support of U.S. objectives,” he added. “Continued U.S. Space Force investment in electromagnetic warfare systems, software, and advanced training is essential to modern warfare.”
The service said Meadowlands also reflects a shift in Space Force acquisition processes. It said close cooperation among warfighters, developers and acquisition professionals helps ensure fielded systems meet tactical requirements and field expectations.
The upgraded system is lighter, more compact and more easily transportable than the Counter Communications System 10.2 it replaces. The Space Force said those changes support operational use and deployment flexibility.
“Operational acceptance of Meadowlands is a huge milestone and a direct result of the close partnership between operational and acquisition professionals,” said U.S. Space Force Col. Bryon McClain, Acting Space Force Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Space Combat Power. “Delivering this capability is a testament to the grit and dedication of the PAE Space Combat Power team warfighters in MD3 and System Delta 89, whose collaborative work ensures we continue to field combat credible capabilities.”
The operational acceptance marks a new stage for the Meadowlands system within the Space Force’s electromagnetic warfare portfolio. The service said continued investment in systems, software and training remains essential to modern warfare.
