The new US Navy joint tactical communications satellite, the TacSat-4, has arrived at Alaska’s Kodiak Launch Complex and is undergoing final preparations for its scheduled launch.

TacSat-4 is a fourth-generation microsatellite designed to increase traditional satellite communications, supplying ten legacy ultra-high-frequency channels.

Unlike traditional satellites, TacSat-4 allows warfighters to use a regular handheld radio for communications while on the move.

The microsatellite will carry a payload sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and developed by the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL).

The satellite is expected to be launched in May or June aboard a Minotaur IV rocket built by Orbital Sciences.

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