The first Global Positioning System Block IIF satellite came through its initial integrated system test with flying colors. The GPS Wing at Los Angeles AFB, Calif., confirmed that all major subsystem are integrated properly on the satellite, which is slated for launch next year. But next it must go through acoustic, separation, and thermal vacuum testing, according to a Space and Missile Systems Center release.
The Air Force on March 12 awarded contract modifications worth a combined $2.4 billion to Boeing to procure an undisclosed number of E-7 Wedgetail as part of the program's engineering and manufacturing development phase and continue work on the airborne battle management aircraft’s radar.