USAF Launches fourth WGS satellite aboard Delta IV Published Jan. 19, 2012 By 45th Space Wing Public Affiars CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla -- The U.S. Air Force launched a United Launch Alliance Delta IV-Medium rocket carrying the fourth Wideband Global SATCOM satellite at 7:38 p.m. EST today from Space Launch Complex 37 here. WGS-04 is the first craft in the program's upgraded Block 2 series, which adds a radio frequency bypass capability designed to support airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms requiring ultra-high bandwidth and data rates. "The 45th Space Wing is proud to work this important Air Force launch of WGS-04 with Space and Missile Systems Center, United Launch Alliance and Boeing," said Col. Rory Welch, 45th Space Wing vice commander, who served as Launch Decision Authority. The next Air Force launch from CCAFS is scheduled for February, when the Air Force will launch the first satellite of the Mobile User Objective System, which will provide enhanced capabilities for mobile military users. The wing will also support SpaceX's Falcon 9 launch for NASA in March. "The bottom line is the Eastern Range continues to be busy with important launches and plays a vital role to our nation's defense; the 45th Space Wing will continue to be the World's Premier Gateway to Space," said Brig. Gen. Anthony Cotton, 45th Space Wing commander. Contact: For more information and updates, see http://www.patrick.af.mil, log on to www.facebook.com/45SpaceWing or contact 45th Space Wing Public Affairs, 321-494-5933