A Global Positioning System Block IIF satellite successfully launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., just before midnight on Aug. 1. The 45th Space Wing supported the launch, which was the seventh in the GPS IIF series. The GPS constellation brings next-generation performance to the system that provides precision timing and navigation data for military, commercial, and private users, according to an Aug. 2 release. “Once again, the Sharks of the 45th Space Wing proudly tip their collective hats to the United Launch Alliance, Boeing, the Space and Missile Systems Center, GPS Directorate, and all our other mission partners who made this launch successful,” said Brig. Gen. Nina Armagno, 45th Space Wing commander, who also served as launch decision authority.
The rate of building B-21 bombers would speed up if the fiscal 2026 defense budget passes. But it remains unclear how much capacity would be added, and whether the Air Force would simply build the bombers faster, or buy more.
