According to an Associated Press report, the airmen of the 319th Communications Squadron at Grand Forks AFB, N.D., cut a ceremonial ribbon Oct. 8 for their new mission—alternate control station for the Air Force’s High Frequency Global Communication System. The system provides communications support for the White House and DOD agencies, US embassies, and military aircraft and ships. The primary system is located at Andrews AFB, Md.
Earlier this week, the People’s Republic of China confirmed it is halting its nuclear arms control talks with the U.S., in retaliation for the U.S. continuing to sell arms to Taiwan. The move reinforces a “pattern of behavior” from Beijing, experts say.