[12-26-07 – Satellite Today] The U.S. Air Force has authorized Boeing Co. to begin construction on a sixth Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) satellite, Boeing announced Dec. 21.
    The Commonwealth of Australia is funding the procurement as part of a cooperative agreement between the U.S. and Australian governments. The satellite is expected to be launched in the fourth quarter of 2012.
    A memorandum of understanding signed by both governments on Nov. 14 adds Australian Defence Force access to WGS services worldwide in exchange for funding the constellation’s sixth satellite. The advance procurement contract enables Boeing to obtain long-lead materials for the satellite. The six WGS satellites are valued at $1.8 billion, which includes associated ground-based payload command and control systems, mission unique software and databases, satellite simulators, logistics support and operator training.
    The sixth WGS satellite, a Block 2 version, will carry the radio frequency (RF) bypass capability designed to support airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms requiring additional bandwidth. The RF bypass supports data rates of up to 311 megabits per second, more than 200 times faster than most cable or DSL connections. Boeing will design and manufacture the 702 model spacecraft at its satellite factory in El Segundo, Calif.
    The first WGS satellite was placed into orbit in October and is expected to begin service in the first quarter of 2008.