The Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS)[1] is a United States Space Force satellite constellation that provides the United States with military communications to support globally distributed military users. Beginning in 2007, DSCS began being replaced by the Wideband Global SATCOM system. A total of 14 DSCS-III satellites were launched between the early 1980s and 2003. Two satellites were launched aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 1985 during the STS-51-J flight. As of 14 September 2021, six DSCS-III satellites were still operational.[2] DSCS operations are currently run by the 4th Space Operations Squadron out of Schriever Space Force Base.
- ^ Burroughs, William E. (1986). Deep Black. New York: Berkley Publishing Group. pp. 187. ISBN 0-425-10879-1.
- ^ "DSCS III Constellation". Air Force Fact Sheet. Archived from the original on 27 April 2017. Retrieved 26 April 2017.