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In Memory

For the next 15 years, SAC's airborne command post fleet remained constant in numbers, mission, and organization. Centered around a EC-135C 'Looking Glass' operated by the 2nd ACCS, the PACCS fleet included two AUXCPs (one from the 2nd ACCS - the EASTAUXCP - and one from the 4th ACCS - the WESTAUXCP) on 15 minute ground alert. The 4th ACCS provided ALCCs No. 1, 2 and 3, and the 70th AREFS supported Radio Relays No. 1 and 2. The ALCCs and the WESTAUXCP were on satellite alert at Minot AFB, and Radio Relay No. 2 was on alert at Rickenbacker ANGB, Ohio (formerly Lockbourne AFB).

In the event of a national emergency, the 'Looking Glass' and the two AUXCPs would orbit over the central US, the three ALCCs would orbit above the Minuteman missile fields in the north central and northwest US, and the two radio relay platforms would orbit over the Midwest, establishing and maintaining communications links with the NCA airborne over the east coast.
Should communications be lost with the NCA or the SAC underground command post, the 'Looking Glass' battle staff would, after satisfying a strict set of guidelines regarding taking over from civilian command of US SIOP Forces, 'assess battle damage, communications, radioactive fallout, and the location and strength of surviving forces'. The 'Looking Glass' battle staff would also 'plan and coordinate strategic strikes against enemy targets and direct returning aircraft to bases with safe runways and plenty of fuel'. If need be, 'the battle staff could launch the entire force of Minuteman and Peacekeeper missile'.

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