The 45th Space Wing at Patrick AFB, Fla., plans to launch the final Defense Support Program satellite from Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., on Aug. 28. The United Launch Alliance has readied a Delta IV Heavy Vehicle to receive the 23rd DSP satellite early this month, reports Amn. David Dobrydney. Launched first in 1970, the DSP’s primary mission was to detect ballistic missile launches, but the system proved it had tactical versatility by detecting Scud missile launches during Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
The Air Force displayed all the firepower it has amassed on Okinawa in an unusually diverse show of force this week. IIn a May 6 “Elephant Walk,” Kadena Air Base showcased 24 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters, eight F-15E Strike Eagles; two U.S. Army Patriot anti-missile batteries near the runway; and…