[10-15-07 – Satellite Today]  The fourth modernized GPS  Block 2R satellite is set for launch Oct. 17 from Cape Canaveral Air Force station, satellite manufacturer Lockheed Martin announced Oct. 15.

Lockheed Martin Navigation Systems and navigation payload provider ITT designed and built 21 2R spacecraft for the Global Positioning Systems Wing, Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif.

The final eight spacecraft, designated Block 2R-M, were modernized to enhance operations and navigation signal performance for military and civilian GPS users around the globe. Lockheed Martin is also responsible for launch and flight operations support of the satellites.