Overview
- Officials confirm eight satellites were launched between 1971 and 1987, with operations continuing until 2006.
- The program is described as the United States’ first-generation highly elliptical orbit system for collecting signals and communications intelligence.
- Satellites flew Molniya-like trajectories that loitered over high northern latitudes to monitor the Soviet Union.
- Intercepted data was routed to the Department of Defense, the National Security Agency, and other national security elements.
- The release includes images and details that corroborate earlier reporting, including the Soviet focus and the program’s HEO design.