Three GLONASS satellites were recently launched in an effort to beef up the failing system. Only eight GLONASS satellites are currently operational. The Russians plan to have 12 operational satellites by 2001. By 2004, Russia hopes to start launching its new generation of satellites, GLONASS-M. These satellites have a life span of up to 7-8 years (up from the current three years). In the future, Russia plans to transition to a low-mass third generation, GLONASS-K, satellites with a guaranteed life span of 10 years. [Source: Interfax]