Boeing

The third flight of the Boeing Delta IV today successfully deployed the U.S. Air Force's Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) spacecraft, DSCS III B6.

The Delta IV Medium launch vehicle carrying DSCS III B6 lifted off at 7:13 p.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. Approximately 42 minutes after liftoff, the Delta IV delivered the communications satellite to a geosynchronous transfer orbit.

Today's mission was the final installment for the Air Force's DSCS program. The Air Force Space Command operates 10 Phase III DSCS satellites that provide defense officials and battlefield commanders secure voice and high rate data communications. The DSCS III system also transmits space operations and early warning data to various systems and users.

"This was a great mission and our second successful launch this week. Our team did a great job in preparing the vehicle and executing the mission. I am very proud of the entire Delta family," said Dan Collins, vice president and program manager, Boeing Delta Programs.

The Delta IV Medium configuration launch vehicle features the Boeing-built Common Booster Core first stage, RS-68 main engine, and four-meter composite payload fairing, all of which have flown successfully in three consecutive missions so far.

The next scheduled Delta launch is another mission for the Air Force. A Delta II will deploy the Global Positioning System satellite, GPS IIR-10. The launch is planned for October from Cape Canaveral.

Boeing Delta web site

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