WATCH: ULA launches Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — The United Launch Alliance launched a rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Tuesday afternoon.

The Atlas V rocket carrying satellites for the U.S. Space Force was originally set for launch Monday but had to be scrubbed due to issues with the liquid oxygen systems.

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The Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (SBIRS GEO) Flight 5 mission is part of the U.S. Space Force’s Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC).

MISSION SUCCESS! United Launch Alliance's #AtlasV deploys #SBIRSGEO5 for the U.S. Space Force's Space and Missile Systems Center. Success #144 for ULA. Thank you to our customers for the trust they place in us! Read more: https://t.co/Jmx6XjY4SY pic.twitter.com/bSDjIb4PDX
— ULA (@ulalaunch) May 18, 2021

Chip Eschenfelder with Lockheed-Martin says Tuesday’s satellite launch is the latest in Lockheed-Martin’s space based infrared missile detection network.

“This is the launch of the fifth space based infrared system missile warning satellite. It’s actually going to be the latest satellite to join a constellation of overhead persistent infrared satellites that protect our nation and troops from missile attacks all the way around the world”, Eschenfelder said.

SEE: SpaceX launch: 10 stunning photos captured by skygazers

ULA vice president Gary Wentz said the company has a long history of supporting national security missions.

“This mission marks our 91st launch in support of national security space. As we prepare to launch the fifth SBIRS mission, we thank our partners for their outstanding teamwork and collaboration,” Wentz said.

The final SBIRS satellite is scheduled to launch in 2022.

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