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USAF Launches Satellite To Enhance Military Communications
Cape Canaveral FL (SPX) Dec 07, 2009 The U.S. Air Force successfully launched a new-generation military communications satellite from here at 8:47 p.m. (EST), when a Delta IV rocket carried a Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) into space. WGS satellites are designed to provide high-capacity communications to U.S. military forces. They will augment and eventually replace the Defense Satellite Communication System that has been the Department of Defense's backbone for satellite communications over the last two decades. Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley, who had planned to witness the launch from the Morrell Operations Center at CCAFS prior to a 24-hour weather delay, said he and the entire nation depend on the 45th Space Wing and other space associated programs. "The WGS provides a giant leap in communications bandwidth and technology," said Secretary Donley. "The launch of this satellite is another example of the Air Force bringing important and vital capabilities to our nation's military around the world." This mission marked the third flight of a Delta IV rocket this year from CCAFS, a record for one year. It also was the second launch of a WGS this year from here. WGS-2 launched atop an Atlas V rocket here April 3. "I am extremely proud to be a part of a team of space professionals that launched the third Wideband Global SATCOM satellite to complete the first phase of the WGS constellation," said Brig. Gen. Edward L. Bolton Jr., 45th Space Wing commander. "I am also pleased this marked our 20th launch of the year." First launched in 2007, WGS will be a constellation of five satellites that will supply service for military leaders to command and control their tactical forces. Share This Article With Planet Earth
Related Links USAF Read the latest in Military Space Communications Technology at SpaceWar.com
TacSat-4 Spacecraft Complete And Awaiting LaunchWashington DC (SPX) Dec 03, 2009 Naval Research Laboratory engineers have completed all environmental and performance testing on the TacSat-4 COMMx payload. This completes the entire TacSat-4 spacecraft as the spacecraft bus was completed in May 2008. The launch date was fall 2009, however it was moved to August 2010 because of Minotaur-IV technical issues and changing DoD mission priorities. TacSat-4 is a Navy led ... read more |
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