NRO satellite successfully launched aboard Delta II

A National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) payload was successfully launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II launch vehicle from Space Launch Complex 2 West, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, at 4:00 p.m. EST, on Dec. 14, 2006.

"This afternoon's spectacular launch went without a hitch and was made possible by the dedication and hard work of the entire government and industry team," Col James Norman, Director of the NRO's Office of Space Launch and NRO Mission Director, said.

The NRO develops and operates unique and innovative overhead reconnaissance systems and conducts intelligence-related activities essential for U.S. national security.