With the launch of the sixth Wideband Global SATCOM
satellite, Boeing and the US Air Force continue to expand the advanced WGS
communications network that serves the US Department of Defense and its
international partners, including the Australian Defence Force.
“The demand for wideband satellite communications continues
to increase,” Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space
& Intelligence Systems said.
“WGS-6 and the additional WGS spacecraft yet to be launched will help to meet
that need.”
The satellite was launched on a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket from
Florida’s Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 8:29pm US Eastern time.
Approximately 57 minutes later, controllers confirmed the satellite was
functioning as expected.
This is the second WGS launch of the year, following the May 24 deployment of
WGS-5.
WGS satellites provide X- and Ka-band protected communications capability using
shapable and steerable spot beams that are easily reconfigurable based on user
needs.
Australia to be first international partner to secure Wideband Global SATCOM.
