GPS IF satellite

Boeing has transferred the US Air Force’s (USAF) third global positioning system (GPS) block IIF satellite to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, US, in preparation for launch from its Satellite Development Center in El Segundo, US.

Delivered by a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft on 9 July 2012, the designated SVN-65 satellite is scheduled to be launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket in early October 2012.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems vice president and general manager Craig Cooning said: "As each IIF satellite becomes operational, we continue the seamless transformation of the GPS constellation into an even more accurate, reliable and durable navigation resource for the US military and the global civilian user community."

The satellite will now undergo pre-flight checkout, furling and integration to ready itself for the launch, following which it will join the first and second GPS IIF satellites, which were launched on 27 May 2010 and 16 July 2011 respectively, to continue the sustainment and modernisation of the GPS network.

GPS IIFs are a class of next-generation satellites designed to deliver new and enhanced capabilities, which include a jam-resistant military signal in hostile environments and greater navigational accuracy through improved atomic clock technology.

See Also:

The satellites are also expected to deliver a protected civilian L5 signal, in an effort to support commercial aviation and safety-of-life applications.

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.

Boeing is under contract with the US Department of Defense (DoD) to manufacture a total of 12 satellites to help improve the military’s defensive capabilities. The company also serves as prime contractor for the USAF’s GPS Operational Control Segment programme, which controls the satellites in the orbit.

Image: An artist’s impression of Boeing’s GPS IF satellite, which provides jam-resistant military signal in hostile environments. Photo: courtesy of USAF.