The Air Force expects to launch today a new Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation satellite into orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta II rocket fired from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
The new satellite, designated GPS IIR-18(M), will be the fifth modernized Lockheed Martin [LMT]-built GPS Block IIR-M satellite to be placed into space. It will replace a decommissioned GPS satellite of an earlier configuration in the 31-satellite on-orbit constellation.
The launch window opens at 2:59 p.m. East Coast time and will remain open for 14 minutes to account for any delays for weather or technical reasons, the Air Force said.
Block IIR-M satellites feature improved accuracy, enhanced encryption, anti-jamming capabilities, and a second civil signal to provide dual-frequency capability and improve resistance to interference, according to the Air Force.
The GPS constellation provides continuous positioning, navigation and timing functions for military and commercial users worldwide.
ULA is the joint venture of Boeing [BA] and Lockheed Martin.