Global Positioning System III - Operational Control Segment

The Global Positioning System III - Operational Control Segment (PE 1206423SF) is a critical program managed by the United States Space Force and Air Force, focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of next-generation GPS ground control capabilities. The program's overarching goal is to ensure the continued sustainment, modernization, and operational effectiveness of the GPS constellation, supporting both military and civilian users worldwide. This program is mandated by Title 10 USC Sec 2281 and 51 USC Sec 50112, which require the Secretary of Defense to maintain GPS for national security and international cooperation, and also encompasses the integration of the Nuclear Detonation Detection System (NDS) payloads.

OCX (Next Generation Operational Control System) is the primary line item within this program element, with objectives centered on developing and deploying advanced command and control capabilities for both legacy and GPS III satellites. OCX is designed to provide robust situational awareness, support Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR), and enable mission capability upgrades for effects-based operations. The program integrates Department of Defense information assurance and cybersecurity controls to safeguard GPS operations against evolving threats.

Key activities include engineering studies, systems development, architectural analyses, technology forecasting, modernization initiatives, and test and evaluation efforts. OCX Block 0, 1, and 2 development is concluding with system acceptance and transition to operational sustainment, supported by interim contractor services to maintain system performance and facilitate capability insertions.

OCX Block 3F represents a significant upgrade to the OCX baseline, specifically tailored to support the GPS III Follow-On (GPS IIIF) satellite launches and new Military GPS User Equipment (MGUE) capabilities. The primary objectives of OCX 3F are to incorporate Regional Military Protection (RMP) a high-powered military signal that enhances GPS resiliency in contested environments and to enable rapid reconfiguration of GPS IIIF satellites for time-critical warfighter effects.

OCX 3F maintains backward compatibility with legacy systems and introduces advanced command, control, and monitoring functions for GPS IIIF, including support for auxiliary payloads such as Search and Rescue (SAR) and NDS. The program's technical objectives include the modernization and deployment of 17 monitor stations, development of training simulators (Standardized Space Trainer), enterprise mission planning systems, and facilities upgrades for control stations.

Systems engineering and technical support activities are ongoing to ensure seamless transition from development to operational acceptance, with a focus on data collection, tuning, and operational demonstrations. The program also supports pre-operational and interim contractor support to sustain OCX capabilities and participate in government-led events such as maintenance, supply support, security, and launch activities.

OCX and OCX Block 3F efforts are closely aligned with Joint Requirements Oversight Council (JROC) approved capabilities, ensuring that the system meets rigorous operational standards and can respond to emerging threats with speed and agility. The acquisition strategy employs a block approach to synchronize GPS enterprise capabilities across space and ground segments, leveraging agile software development and integration with commercial and international partners.

The OCX 3F contract utilizes an agile methodology to deliver incremental upgrades in support of GPS IIIF launches, while maintaining system compatibility and resiliency. Funding for the program supports a broad range of activities, including software development, system integration testing, mission planning, training, and technical mission analysis.

The program is transitioning from development to sustainment, with completion of OCX development and operational acceptance, and the initiation of contract closeout activities. OCX 3F funding ramps up to support software development and factory testing for initial GPS IIIF launches, with ongoing integration exercises and operational readiness testing extending through future years.