The 3rd Space Operations Squadron at Schriever AFB, Colo., assumed control authority of WGS-4, the Air Force’s fourth Wideband Global Satellite Communications spacecraft. The July 30 transfer of satellite control authority to the squadron from the Space and Missile Systems Center, the service’s space acquisition arm, is the last step before the Air Force releases the sophisticated communications satellite to US Strategic Command as the satellite assumes on-orbit operations, according to a Schriever release. Since its launch into space on Jan. 19, WGS-4 has undergone a series of tests and checkouts. WGS-4 is the first WGS satellite in the Block II configuration; it supports data transmissions at much higher rates than the first three WGS spacecraft. “This vehicle brings significant increases in bandwidth and capability to the warfighter,” said Lt. Col. Chadwick Igl, 3rd SOPS commander. The Air Force took control of the satellite from prime contractor Boeing in April. (Schriever report by Scott Prater)
F-15E Aviator Missing in Iran Rescued by US Forces
April 5, 2026
The second crew member of the F-15E shot down April 3 has been rescued from Iran. U.S. forces recovered the aviator alive and all American forces involved in the operation are believed to be safe, U.S. officials told Air & Space Forces Magazine.