Interim Polar System

Overview
The Interim Polar System (IPS)

"provides EHF low data rate (75 bps to 2.4 kbps) communications to users above 65 degrees north latitude. A single satellite in a Molniya orbit provides 14-hour coverage to the polar region. Due to the nature of Molniya orbits, two satellites are required for 24-hour coverage. IPS supports combatant commands and NATO missions with C2, DISN, and essential targeting information."