ILS Launches UFO F11 Navy Communications Satellite

Last night, International Launch Services successfully launched the UFO F11 communications satellite for the U.S. Navy from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., at 9:30 p.m. EST aboard a Lockheed Martin-built [NYSE: LMT] Atlas III.

The 3,000 pound (1,364 kilogram) UFO F11 satellite, built by Boeing Satellite Systems, separated from the launch vehicle at approximately 10:02 p.m. and its first signals were received shortly afterward at the Air Force’s Satellite Control Facility on the island of Diego Garcia, confirming normal operation. UFO F11 will be positioned at 172 degrees East longitude at the equator. UFO F11 carries a new ultra-high frequency digital receiver that will provide additional UHF channels and greater flexibility in configuring communication services.