45th Space Wing successfully launches Delta IV-Heavy

  • Published
  • By Eric Brian
  • 45th SW Public Affairs
The 45th Space Wing successfully launched a United Launch Alliance-built Delta IV-Heavy Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle from Space Launch Complex 37 here at ­­­5:58 p.m. (EST) on Nov. 21, carrying a classified National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) satellite.

"The tremendous ULA, NRO and Air Force partnership once again delivered success," said Lt. Col. William Heuck, 5th Space Launch Squadron commander.

The largest of the Delta IV family, the Heavy version features three Common Booster Cores mounted together.

"The Delta IV rocket continues to evolve and mature with this fourth Delta IV-Heavy launch from the Cape," said Maj. Jeremy Geib, Delta IV Launch Operations Flight commander.

This successful launch culminates months of hard work by the combined commercial and government space launch team. 

"This mission helps to ensure that vital NRO resources will continue to bolster our national defense," said Brig. Gen. Ed Wilson, 45th Space Wing commander. "The spectacular evening launch showcases how the 45th assures access to the high frontier and supports global operations."