The NAVSTAR GPS 2R-9 was launched by a Boeing Delta rocket and successfully placed in orbit 68 minutes later.

GPS systems are used to guide JDAM (joint direct attack munition) precision bombs and Tomahawk cruise missiles. They also help troops orient themselves.

The US Air Force now has a network of 28 GPS satellites.

The mission cost about 100 million dollars.

"Control of the battlefield begins here," said Brigadier General Greg Pavlovich, the 45th Space Wing commander at Cape Canaveral. "Everyone is seeing how critical GPS is to fighting wars. You simply can't fight wars without space".

The GPS system provides users with position location data in longitude, latitude and elevation. It is operated by the US Air Force Space Command.

SPACE.WIRE