The JECE reached initial operational capability in April 2008 and was created by USSTRATCOM as a result of a 2006 Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) requirement for a "deployable Joint Task Force headquarters for WMD elimination to be able to provide immediate command and control of forces for executing those missions.
"[3] In the 2010 QDR the Secretary of Defense directed the establishment of a "standing Joint Task Force Elimination Headquarters.
In order to better plan, train, and execute WMD-elimination operations, the Department is establishing a standing Joint Task Force Elimination Headquarters with increased nuclear disablement, exploitation, intelligence, and coordination capabilities.
[4]" The JECE may augment a headquarters along j-code functional lines or as a cell of elimination expertise such as in Talisman Saber 2009 where they reached Final Operational Capability with limitations.
The JECE may also form the core element of a JTF-E headquarters as they have performed in Key Resolve and Ulchi-Freedom Guardian exercises in conjunction with the Army's 20th Support Command (CBRNE) headquarters.