New Navigation Satellite in Orbit

The U.S. Air Force has added the fourth of a modernized class of global positioning satellites to its in-orbit constellation. It will provide warfighters with enhanced navigational capabilities resistant to electromagnetic interference and countermeasures. Launched in October, the modernized Global Positioning System Block IIR (GPS IIR-M) spacecraft features an updated antenna panel that provides increased signal power to ground- based receivers, two new military signals for improved accuracy and enhanced encryption and anti-jamming capabilities.

The GPS IIR-M also includes a second civilian signal that will provide users with an open access signal on a different frequency. The upgraded spacecraft are operated by the U.S. Air Force’s Global Positioning Systems Wing, Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base. The satellite joins the three IIR-M units and 12 other operational Block IIR satellites within the current 28spacecraft constellation.

The Block IIR-M satellites were manufactured and upgraded by the Lockheed Martin Company (www. lockheedmartin.com).

Copyright Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Dec 2007

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