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.
F-35As from the Vermont Air National Guard have deployed to Puerto Rico in recent days, continuing a major buildup of U.S. Air Force assets in Latin America aimed at combating drug trafficking and pressuring the regime of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
