GPSIII Follow On

The GPS III Follow On program, managed by the Air Force, is designed to enhance the capabilities of the Global Positioning System (GPS) by delivering improved satellites beyond the initial ten space vehicles of the GPS III program. This initiative is part of a broader effort to maintain and advance the United States' space-based navigation systems, ensuring they meet both military and civilian requirements as mandated by U.S. law. The program's objectives include backward compatibility with existing systems, compliance with Unified S-Band interface standards, and integration of advanced payloads such as a redesigned U.S. Nuclear Detonation Detection System (USNDS) payload.

A key goal of the GPS III Follow On program is to enhance satellite capabilities with features like Laser Retro-reflector Arrays (LRAs), Search and Rescue/GPS (SAR/GPS), and Regional Military Protection (RMP). These enhancements are designed to improve accuracy, provide better ephemeris data, and offer high-power regional Military Code signals for specific areas. The SAR/GPS payload, developed in collaboration with Canada, fulfills international search and rescue obligations by providing a space-based distress alerting capability.

The program also focuses on integrating these new satellite capabilities with existing ground and user segments through initiatives like the GPS Next Generation Operational Control System and Military GPS User Equipment programs. This integration is crucial for implementing RMP capabilities effectively across the GPS Enterprise. Additionally, the program supports crosslink demonstrations to connect GPS IIIF satellites to Space Data Network terminals, enhancing resiliency and situational awareness in contested space environments.

Procurement efforts for the GPS III Follow On include strategic acquisitions to optimize production costs without affecting delivery timelines or milestones. Satellites 11 through 20 have been awarded contracts, with development underway for future launches. The program capitalizes on opportunities for economy of scale acquisitions to ensure cost-effective production while maintaining alignment with planned launch schedules. This approach supports the overarching goal of sustaining a robust and reliable global positioning system that meets evolving defense needs.