48th CS: Spiders maintain communications web

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Abby L. Finkel
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The aptly named 48th Communications Squadron ‘Spiders’ play an integral role in keeping the 48th Fighter Wing’s web of communications systems up and running, providing service to approximately 5,500 users across 25 organizations.

From maintaining base computers and networks to handling the encryption keys required for secure communications, the Spiders are responsible for a wide variety of mission-essential tasks.

"You could literally describe the 48th CS as the organization that builds the web that ties the whole Liberty Wing together and keeps it operating,” said Maj. Ryan Schiffner, 48th CS commander. “Without that web, the Liberty Wing can't communicate.”

Within the CS squadron, there are several sections with different responsibilities. One such section is communications security. COMSEC Airmen are responsible for enforcing the policies that keep installation computers and networks safe as well as maintaining the encryption keys used for secure communications.

"Our aircraft can’t take off without the right codes,” said Senior Airman Andrew Aldridge, 48th CS alternate COMSEC manager. “Without the codes they can't communicate with their wingmen or critical ground agencies on the radio.”

Recently, the Spiders had an opportunity to work with their COMSEC counterparts from Minot Air Force Base, N.D., helping them get the B-52H Stratofortresses ready to participate in a theater integration and flying training exercise at RAF Fairford, England.

“COMSEC is a critical enabler of the B-52 mission,” said a 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron senior weapons systems officer. “COMSEC encryption keys allow B-52 crews to communicate with various command and control units. The encryption provides the necessary tactical communications for the B-52 to fully engage in a wartime battle space.”

While in the U.K., the B-52s flew 36 sorties in support of the U.S. European Command’s bomber task force and worked with partner nations to increase interoperability.

Whether it’s helping B-52s from another base complete a training exercise or making sure the Liberty Wing F-15s can provide worldwide responsive combat airpower and support, the 48th CS Spiders work hard to make sure Airmen have the communication support they need to get the job done.