FLTSATCOM - Current and future

Four FLTSATCOM satellites provide currently a worldwide communication system for the Department of Defense (DOD) strategic and tactical users. The FLTSATCOM is a hexagonally shaped modular spacecraft. The three-axis momentum-biased spacecraft provides over 1200 watts dc power at the end of five years in orbit using sun-oriented solar arrays. Initial weight in synchronous orbit is about 2100 lb. Atlas Centaur is used as booster. There are 23 communications channels for functional uses related to fleet broadcast, fleet relay, Air Force narrow band, and the DOD wideband channel. It is expected that FLTSATCOMs 1 to 4 will provide worldwide continuous coverage until about 1984. The launch failure of FLTSATCOM 5 left the FLTSATCOM system without an orbital spare. The DOD is not procuring FLTSATCOMs 6, 7, and 8. FLTSATCOM 6 is to be launched in May 1985. The three new spacecraft will continue FLTSATCOM worldwide service until 1988, at which time the new Milstar spacecraft will take over strategic and tactical service.