Aerospace Defense Command

The Aerospace Defense Command (ADC) was a U.S. military organization responsible for protecting the nation’s airspace from potential threats, such as enemy aircraft or missiles. Active mainly during the Cold War, it operated radar systems, interceptor aircraft, and early warning networks to detect and respond to airborne intrusions. ADC's mission was to safeguard the country’s airspace through surveillance, interception, and strategic defense, coordinating efforts between different branches of the military. It played a crucial role in homeland security during its operational years before its functions were integrated into other defense agencies in the 1980s.