U.S. Space Force Activates Critical Polar Satellite Communication Payloads
The U.S. Space Force has officially declared its two Enhanced Polar System-Recapitalization (EPS-R) payloads operationally active. Hosted on two Norwegian satellites, these payloads provide secure, jam-resistant satellite communications (SATCOM) for U.S. forces in the challenging Arctic region. This activation formally closes a critical capability gap in continuous satellite coverage over the North Pole. The systems, which completed on-orbit testing after a 2023 launch, are now ready to support strategic military operations. This milestone enhances command and control for national security missions in a geopolitically vital area.
Official Source: https://aviationweek.com/space/satellites/space-force-polar-satcom-payloads-formally-enter-operations
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