Confirming a Known TSAT Tale:

In a recently completed study, the Government Accountability Office confirms what the Air Force already knows, essentially that there are cost and technology issues with the Transformational Satellite (TSAT), a new communications satellite system. In testimony earlier this year, Air Force Undersecretary Ronald Sega, who serves as DOD executive agent for space, told lawmakers that the Air Force was converting TSAT to what he termed a “fighter block” approach to improve its chances for success. Even so, the House was not completely convinced and subtracted 2007 funds. So, apparently, agrees GAO, which says despite DOD machinations, the technology gaps are considerable and the new incremental approach only produces “reduced capabilities in the initial satellites and more advanced capabilities in the remaining satellites.”