USA-213

USA-213 refers to a United States reconnaissance satellite, also known as NRO L-49. It was launched on January 12, 2010, from Vandenberg Air Force Base aboard a Delta IV Heavy rocket. The satellite is believed to be part of the Advanced Orion/Mentor series of signals intelligence (SIGINT) satellites operated by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).

These satellites are placed in geosynchronous orbit, allowing them to monitor electronic communications over a broad geographical area. Their large size and antenna arrays facilitate the interception of weak signals. The exact capabilities and mission details of USA-213 remain classified, consistent with the secretive nature of NRO operations and the sensitive nature of SIGINT collection. The USA designation indicates the country of origin and its classification as a national security asset. The numerical identifier, 213 in this case, serves as a unique catalog number within the US satellite program. The information available to the public concerning USA-213 is generally limited to launch details and informed speculation based on observable characteristics and historical context of similar missions.