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Model Description

This Wideband Global Satcom satellite model (WGS satellite) is a small desktop model that includes most of the major details of the flying model. Each of these WGS satellite models is individually assembled by hand from parts precisely cut by a laser cutter.

The solar arrays on the WGS satellite model are laser cut and painted metallic blue to simulate the solar arrays on the flying satellite.

Satellite Description

The Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) are the key elements of a high-capacity SATCOM system that will provide a quantum leap in communications capabilities for the warfighter.

WGS will support the DoD's warfighting information exchange requirements, enabling execution of tactical command and control, communications, and computers; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR); battle management; and combat support information. WGS will also augment the current Ka-band Global Broadcast Service (on UHF F/O satellites) by providing additional information broadcast capabilities.

Each WGS can route 2.4 to 3.6 Gbps of data -- providing more than 10 times the communications capacity of the predecessor DSCS III satellite. Using reconfigurable antennas and a digital channelizer, WGS also offers added flexibility to tailor coverage areas and to connect X-band and Ka-band users anywhere within the satellite field of view. The system provides tremendous operational flexibility and delivers the needed capacity, coverage, connectivity and control in support of demanding operational scenarios.

The WGS space segment will initially consist of three geostationary satellites operating over Pacific, Indian and Atlantic regions. Plans are in place for procurement of additional satellites to meet the warfighter's evolving SATCOM bandwidth requirements. Follow-on satellites will include enhanced capabilities, such as an RF bypass to support ultra-wide terminals needed for airborne ISR missions.

Link

A & M Model Makers 1/4 Scale WGS Model
Boeing WGS Fact Sheet
GlobalSecurity.org Article