Fifth AEHF communications satellite launched
The US Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center’s fifth Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) communications satellite was launched from Space Launch Complex-41 on 8 August.
The satellite was launched on a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket.
The AEHF system, developed by Lockheed Martin, provides significantly improved global, survivable, protected communications capabilities for strategic command and tactical military forces.
Gary Wentz, ULA vice president of government and commercial programs, said: ‘The ULA and supplier teams continue to demonstrate the highest dedication to mission success as we overcame several technical issues during the last few weeks. Thank you to the entire team and our government mission partners for the outstanding partnership and teamwork to deliver these critical payloads to orbit.’