TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- A newly expanded Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility for the 552nd Air Control Wing opened on April 4.
With the emerging requirements of the E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System, the old SCIF did not meet the demands of mission planning, platform upgrades, intelligence research/analysis and Advanced Programs initiatives.
“The expansion of the SCIF is long overdue, and we owe many who have gone before us and some who are still here today a debt of gratitude for helping make this new facility a reality,” said Col. Geoffrey Weiss, 552nd ACW commander. “This will help America’s Wing meet the emerging demands of joint global operations, overcome warfighting gaps and ultimately stay a step ahead of our adversaries.”
This expansion increased secure and classified work space from 400 square feet to 14,000 square feet and allowed for 103 additional Joint Web Intelligence Communication Systems. The new space includes work space for intelligence analysis, aircrew mission planning, briefing and debriefing at the Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information and Special Access Program level.
This new facility allows for simultaneous engagement of aircrew and intelligence analyst mission planning and expanded use of classified computer systems, development of tactics, techniques and procedures for E-3 integration with next generation aircraft, collaborative intelligence training and Video Tele-Conference capabilities to Combatant Commanders, MAJCOMS, Department of Defense Civilians, Contractors, Army, Navy, AFRC and Air National Guard.
The SCIF supports the 552nd Operations Support Squadron and seven additional squadrons, Air Force Reserve Command, Department of Defense Contractors and Air Force civilian personnel across three military groups and two geographically separated units.
“The expansion enables seamless joint training, planning and combat mission analysis crucial to the sustainment and advancement of our joint warfighting capabilities,” said Weiss.