Global Positioning System (GPS): Space and Control Program

Mission Description:

The GPS is a space-based radio positioning, navigation and time data distribution system that provides precise location, speed and time to an unlimited number of military and civilian users. (User equipment sets, whether integrated aboard aircraft, ships and vehicles or handheld, derive positioning and timing information from satellite-transmitted data.) The program's space and ground control segments comprise Block IIR satellite acquisition and deployment, Block IIF acquisition, segment upgrades, and system-wide R&D to support deployment. Procurement of Block IIR and Block IIF satellites will sustain the GPS constellation via progressive replacement of current Block II and IIA satellites by increased-capability and longer-lasting versions, respectively.

Key Program Factors:

DoD's responsibility is to acquire, operate and maintain GPS for national security, civil and international use, to include maintaining Standard and Precise Positioning Services (SPS and PPS) and developing measures to retain military advantage without disrupting civil services

The space and control segment acquisitions are key upgrades to the operational GPS system

Acquisition Service and Category: Air Force, ACAT-1C

Block II/IIA program: 28 satellites procured and launched. Block IIR program: 21 satellites procured; first spacecraft lost in unsuccessful Delta II launch of January 1997. Block IIF program: 33 satellites to be procured; first launch in late-2001

GPS roles in Navigation Warfare: protection of location information for friendly forces; prevention of hostile use; and 33% improvement in sensor-to-shooter information accuracy.

Major contractors:

Boeing North American, Seal Beach, CA (Block IIA); Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space, King of Prussia, PA (Block IIR); Lockheed Martin Federal Systems, Gaithersburg, MD; Boeing North America, Seal Beach, CA (Block IIF).

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