[SatNews] The Space and Missile Systems Center recommended to HQ Air Force Space Command the release of WGS-5 communications satellite to the operational constellation.

Artistic rendition of the WGS-5 satellite. Image courtesy of Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems.

This significant achievement reflects the successful collaboration between numerous organizations including the Space and Missile Systems Center, Air Force Space Command, Army Space and Missile Defense Command /Army Forces Strategic Command, and the Boeing Company.  

WGS provides flexible, high-capacity communications for marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen throughout the world.  WGS is a key enabler of Command and Control, Communications Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, as well as battle management and combat support information functions.  WGS-5 is the fifth of ten planned satellites in the wideband constellation and was launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, May 24, 2013.  

WGS-5 is at its operational orbit location providing coverage over the Atlantic Ocean for the European theater and full coverage of the CONUS for the first time. "I am proud of the tremendous dedication and commitment of the Military Satellite Communications Wideband Division as we field this critical communication capability," said Ms. Charlotte M. Gerhart, chief of the Wideband Global SATCOM Division.  "The success of WGS-5 is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Wideband SATCOM team."