A GPS 2F satellite on the pulse line at Boeing’s Satellite Development Center in El Segundo, Calif. Photo: Boeing

[Via Satellite 06-27-2014] Boeing reached the halfway mark in delivering the current series of Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites to the U.S. Air Force, with on-orbit checkout and validation of the sixth GPS 2F satellite. The latest satellite is the fourth generation of Boeing-manufactured GPS space vehicles designed to improve GPS signal capability and performance worldwide.

“We have built all 12 GPS 2F satellites using our advanced production processes, with the spacecraft ready to launch on request by the Air Force,” said Craig Cooning, VP and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. “We’re also continuing to work with the Air Force to improve the efficiency of our final checkouts before launch and on-orbit, ensuring each GPS 2F enters operation smoothly and quickly.”

ULA launched the sixth GPS 2F satellite from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida on May 16, 2014, marking the second GPS 2F launch in three months. The next launch is currently being prepared for the third quarter of 2014.