Boeing Satellite Systems Inc. was awarded a $50.7 million contract modification to begin work on the fifth Wideband Gapfiller Satellite (WGS), the U.S. Air Force announced Dec. 22. The contract allows for Boeing to begin procurement of long-lead parts, including high-reliability items and major components of spacecraft subsystems.

In November, Boeing received a $299.8 million contract to begin production of the fourth satellite under the WGS Block 2 contract. The contract is valued at $1.1 billion if all options are exercised.

The first of three Boeing WGS satellites built under the first phase of the program is scheduled for launch in June 2007.