45th Space Wing launches NRO satellite on board Atlas 5

The 45th Space Wing successfully launched a United Launch Alliance-built Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex 41 at 9:09 a.m. May 22 carrying a classified national security payload.

The payload was designed and built by the National Reconnaissance Office.

The 45th Space Wing commander was pleased with the performance of the team for this launch.

"This is the culmination of a lot of long hours and hard work by the entire mission team, which included the wing, NRO, ULA and other mission partners," said Brig. Gen. Nina Armagno, who also served as the mission Launch Decision Authority.

"This successful launch helps to ensure that vital NRO resources will continue to bolster our national defense while showcasing why the 45th Space Wing is the world's premiere gateway to space," Armagno said.

"We look forward to many more successful launches along the beautiful Space Coast during the rest of 2014," she added.