[Satellite TODAY 09-14-11] Boeing received a $1.09 billion contract modification from the U.S. Air Force, which adds funding to its existing Block 2 follow-on contract for full production, launch and on-orbit activation of the seventh Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) satellite, Boeing announced Sept. 13.

   The contract also includes procurement of long-lead materials for an eighth satellite, as well as options for the full production, launch and on-orbit activation of satellites eight and nine. The additional orders are part of the WGS Block 2 follow-on contract awarded in August 2010.

   Boeing will support WGS services including production, launch site activities, and initial orbital operations and checkout for each satellite. Boeing also is working with the Air Force on potential upgrades that would further increase the satellites’ capacity and operational flexibility.

   “WGS is providing tremendous value for the Department of Defense. Boeing has worked closely with the Air Force to implement commercial practices to drive down costs so that this critical capability can continue to be procured and fielded despite budget challenges,” said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems.

WGS satellites are built on the Boeing 702HP platform, to supports missions ranging from tactical communications to and between ground forces, to relaying data and imagery from airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms.