France launches ‘cutting-edge’ military satellite into space
France has launched a “state-of-the-art satellite” into orbit, designed to integrate all of the country’s forces deployed across the globe.
The Ariane 5 rocket carrying the Syracuse 4A military satellite took off in French Guiana late Saturday, with the mission accomplished 38 minutes and 41 seconds after launch, AFP reported on Sunday.
The Syracuse 4A is built by French satellite builder Thales Alenia Space. It was commissioned by the country's Armament General Directorate.
The satellite "is designed to resist military aggression from the ground and in space, as well as interference," French air and space force spokesman Colonel Stephane Spet told the news agency.
"At sea, in the air or on the ground, militaries need secured and powerful communication means in order to be able to exchange information with the command center," launch provider Arianespace wrote in its mission description.
"Thanks to its state-of-the-art equipment (anti-jamming antenna and digital transparent processor on board), Syracuse 4A will guarantee a high resistance to extreme jamming methods," it added.
Paris created a space force command in July 2019.
According to AFP, investments in France's space program are set to reach 4.3 billion euros ($5 billion) over the 2019-2025 budget period.
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