Boeing has successfully launched the 12th satellite for the US Air Force’s (USAF) Global Positioning System (GPS) IIF constellation from the Space Launch Complex-41 in Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.

The GPS IIF-12 lifted off from a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V launch vehicle and was released into its medium Earth orbit of about 12,000 miles.

Boeing Government Satellite Systems vice-president Dan Hart said: "This GPS IIF milestone builds on our 40-plus years of GPS experience and a strong government-Boeing partnership.

"We continue investing in GPS innovation while driving down costs, keeping GPS prepared to meet current and future demands."

"We continue investing in GPS innovation while driving down costs, keeping GPS prepared to meet current and future demands."

The launch will be followed by on-orbit tests to confirm the operational capability of GPS IIF-12.

The GPS IIF satellites bring into service the dedicated civil signal (L5) and multiple civil / military signals L1M, L2M, L2C, and provide improved accuracy, greater security and anti-jam capabilities compared to the previous GPS blocks.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The first satellite, GPS IIF-1, was launched in May 2010 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Orbiting at an altitude of 10,898nm, the GPS satellites have a designed life of 12 years, but have been operating for more than 20 years, with the oldest being in service for 25 years.

The GPS Master Control Station at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, is operated by the 50th SW’s 2nd Space Operations Squadron.

The latest development brings the total number of GPS satellite delivered on orbit to the USAF to 50.


Image: A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket carrying the GPS IIF-12 mission. Photo: courtesy of United Launch Alliance.