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U. S. Space Force Field Commands successfully launch GPS III, demonstrating expedited launch capabilities
The U.S. Space Force successfully launched the GPS III SV-07 satellite on December 16 using SpaceX’s Falcon 9, drastically reducing the typical launch timeline from 24 months to just five. This Rapid Response Trailblazer (RRT) mission demonstrated the agility of Space Systems Command (SSC) and Space Operations Command (SpOC) in meeting urgent national security needs while ensuring the continued reliability of global GPS services.
This launch was the first test of trailblazer capabilities for the GPS constellation, proving the ability to quickly replace malfunctioning satellites. Mission Delta 31, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin, shortened the standard six-month pre-launch process to just three, showcasing the flexibility and efficiency needed to sustain and enhance space-based navigation and communication systems.