Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS)
Abstract
Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS), previously reported as Wideband Gapfiller Satellites, is a constellation of the Department of Defense's highest capacity communication satellites. WGS Block I satellites became operational with WGS-1 in April 2008 (Initial Operational Capability declared in January 2009), WGS-2 in August 2009 and WGS-3 in June 2010. The first of the WGS Block II satellites, WGS-4, became operational August 2012. WGS provides service in both the X and Ka-band frequency spectrums, including a new two-way Ka-band service. WGS will augment the Defense Satellite Communications System III and the Global Broadcast Service Phase II. WGS is a fully duplexed communications platform offering warfighters a significant increase in capacity, connectivity and interoperability. It provides high capacity and digitally channelized service at both X and Ka frequency bands, opening up a new 2-way Ka communication capability. This highly flexible communications satellite design leverages commercial processes, practices and technology to provide a wideband payload compatible with existing and future terminals. WGS provides an order-of-magnitude increase in communications bandwidth to our infrastructure users, Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines. The WGS program has two International Partnerships. In exchange for access to a portion of the WGS constellation, Australia is providing funds for WGS-6 while Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, New Zealand and the United States are providing funds for WGS-9.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA614905
Entities
Organizations
- Air Force Space Command