The Air Force on Monday successfully placed the last of its modernized Global Positioning System IIR satellites into orbit. A United Launch Alliance Delta II Rocket fired from Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., carried this satellite, designated GPS IIR-21(M), into space. It joined the constellation of 30 other GPS spacecraft, including seven other Block IIR-M satellites, that provide precision navigation, location, and timing functions to the US military and worldwide civil users. “I am exceedingly pleased with today’s launch and elated to be a part of a mission that plays a critical component of our nation’s infrastructure,” said Col. Dave Madden, commander of the GPS Wing at Los Angeles AFB, Calif. The Lockheed Martin-built satellite features improved accuracy, enhanced encryption, anti-jamming capabilities, and a second civil signal. It is expected to be declared ready for operations next month. (Los Angeles release)
The Senate passed its version of the 2026 National Defense Authorization bill late Oct. 9 with new language restricting retirements for B-1 bombers and E-3 AWACS. Now lawmakers from the House and Senate must set about resolving the differences between their two bills, which could lead to significant changes for…
