A United Launch Alliance Delta IV heavy lift expendable launch vehicle successfully boosted the last Defense Support Program satellite into orbit Nov. 10 at 8:50 p.m. The Northrop Grumman-built DSP separated from the booster six hours and 20 minutes later, states a company release. Slated to be replaced by the Space-based Infrared System, the DSP constellation should serve “well into the next decade” with the addition of DSP 23, said Alexis Livanos, head of Northrop’s space technology sector. The DSP system has been in service for about 40 years.
Greece is acquiring at least 20 F-35s in a deal valued at $3.5 billion but could double that number with options. It will continue upgrading some of its F-16s but sell some off, possibly to Ukraine, and offer its French Mirage 2000s and Rafales to other countries, as well.