The Air Force and Lockheed Martin say the first modernized Global Positioning System passed its on-orbit check, enabling the 2nd Space Operations Squadron, Schriever AFB, Colo., to declare it operational. GPS IIR-14 (M) provides increased signal power, two new military signals, enhanced military encryption and anti-jamming capability, and a second civil signal.
The Pentagon's Office of Strategic Capital is giving a $150 million conditional loan to Rocket Lab meant to increase the launch rate for its new reusable Neutron rocket, which is slated for its first flight next year.