[Satellite Today – 3-17-08] The sixth GPS 2R satellite built by Lockheed Martin was launched March 15, the satellite manufacturer announced.
    The satellite, placed in orbit by a United Launch Alliance Delta 2 rocket, carries a modernized antenna panel to provide increased signal power to receivers on the ground, two new military signals for improved accuracy, enhanced encryption and anti-jamming capabilities for the military, and a second civil signal.
    This was the third launch of a GPS 2R-M satellite in less than five months and is one of the final three Block II2-M satellites planned for launch in 2008. The final satellite, which includes a demonstration payload that will provide a temporary on-orbit demonstration for the new L5 civil signal has completed final integration testing and is on track for shipment to Cape Canaveral in preparation for a scheduled launch in June.