WASHINGTON, July 2, 2026 — The U.S. Space Force has formally accepted the Meadowlands electromagnetic warfare system for operational use, expanding its ground-based satellite communications disruption capabilities in support of combatant commands worldwide.
The system was operationally accepted on June 8, 2026, by the U.S. Space Force Combat Forces Command. Developed by L3Harris Technologies, Meadowlands is designed to detect, deny, disrupt, and degrade adversary communications in support of joint force objectives. It is a major upgrade to the Counter Communications System (CCS) Block 10.2, enhancing the Space Force's reversible and non-reversible electromagnetic warfare capabilities.
More Mobile and Easier to Deploy
Meadowlands introduces a significantly smaller hardware footprint than its predecessor. By adopting an open software architecture and modernized electronics, the number of transportable equipment cases has been reduced from 23 to seven, simplifying transportation and deployment.
The system uses ground-based radio frequency units mounted on wheeled trailers, allowing operators to rapidly reposition the equipment to avoid adversary counter-jamming efforts. Its compact design supports operations in both forward austere environments and secure rear locations.
The upgraded architecture also enables faster software updates and future capability enhancements. Meadowlands provides multi-frequency jamming in the S-band and X-band, allowing it to disrupt a wider range of satellite communications.
Supporting Joint Operations
The system will be operated by Guardians assigned to Mission Delta 3 (MD 3) – Space Electromagnetic Warfare, which organizes, trains, and equips electromagnetic warfare personnel for combatant commands, including United States Space Command.
The Space Force highlighted the operational value of electromagnetic warfare during Operation Midnight Hammer, where operators established a communications "silence zone" by disrupting adversary communications. This supported the secure ingress and egress of bomber aircraft while providing critical indications and warnings during the mission.
Production and Future Expansion
Following delivery of the first production unit in December 2025, L3Harris is working toward a production rate of one Meadowlands system per month.
The Space Force has requested $450 million for Meadowlands production in its fiscal year 2027 budget and projects an additional $605 million for system procurement between 2028 and 2031.
To expand electromagnetic warfare operations globally, the service plans to establish five new Space Electronic Warfare Tactical Operations Centers (SEWTOCs). Mission Delta 3 currently operates one SEWTOC at Peterson Space Force Base.
Meadowlands has also completed an International Initial Baseline Review, making it eligible for potential Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and enabling allied nations, subject to U.S. government approval, to integrate the system into their own defense capabilities.
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