The United Launch Alliance (ULA) has successfully launched an experimental navigation satellite on its most powerful rocket yet, the Vulcan Centaur. The mission marked the first-ever US Space Force launch for the company and paves the way for future national security launches.
Launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, the Vulcan Centaur rocket reached geosynchronous orbit after a seven-hour journey spanning over 22,000 miles. The satellite, known as Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NTS-3), is designed to test new technologies that can resist jamming and spoofing.
The NTS-3 features a phased array antenna that allows it to focus powerful beams on ground forces and combat environments. It also has a software architecture that enables reprogramming while in orbit, providing a game-changing capability.
The Vulcan Centaur rocket has made two successful flights previously, with its first launch in January 2024 and the second in October 2024. The ULA has certified the rocket for national security launches, making it one of two companies to do so, alongside SpaceX.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/watch-vulcan-centaur-rocket-launch-experimental-military-satellite-on-aug-12