PNT Resiliency, Mods, and Improvements

The PNT Resiliency, Mods, and Improvements program (PE 0604201F) is a key Air Force research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) effort focused on enhancing the resiliency and adaptability of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems. PNT capabilities are essential for precision targeting, safe aerial navigation, and synchronized operations across platforms. The program's objective is to ensure reliable PNT in the face of evolving electronic and cyber threats, supporting both offensive and defensive military operations. This is accomplished through modernization of GPS receivers, integration of alternative navigation sources, adoption of open system architectures, and development of advanced anti-jam technologies.

Embedded GPS/INS - Modernized (EGI-M) is a major line item under this program, aiming to upgrade legacy aircraft navigation systems to withstand current and emerging navigational warfare threats. The EGI-M effort, now led solely by Northrop Grumman, focuses on interface standardization and software modularity to facilitate rapid incorporation of new navigation and timing sources. Key objectives include adding M-Code and ADS-B Out compliance to receivers, reducing configuration variants, and lowering production and sustainment costs. Planned activities include software development, hardware qualification, formal testing, and initial deliveries of upgraded systems.

Miniaturized Airborne GPS Receiver 2000 - Modernization (MAGR-2K-M) targets the enhancement of legacy aircraft GPS receivers by integrating M-Code capability, which improves anti-jamming and secure access for military GPS signals. The program also addresses parts obsolescence and prepares for ADS-B Out implementation. Objectives are centered on finalizing software integration, preparing for Program Executive Office (PEO) certification, and supporting platform integration and testing for fielding readiness.

PNT Resiliency, Mods, and Improvements (RMI) supports studies, analyses, and technology transition projects to address navigation warfare threats and emerging technologies. The RMI effort develops flexible Secure Software Defined Receiver User Equipment and associated antenna electronics capable of capturing signals beyond GPS, including Multi-Global Navigation Satellite Systems and commercial solutions. Plans include continued risk-reduction studies, advanced analysis, and documentation of interface design requirements to facilitate the transition to alternative PNT technologies within DoD systems.

Resilient EGI (R-EGI) establishes a Government Reference Architecture (GRA) based on modular open systems architecture (MOSA), enabling rapid insertion of new resilient PNT capabilities. R-EGI's goals are to prototype and test upgradeable aircraft PNT Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) that can quickly adapt to adversarial threats. Objectives include technical readiness reviews, data package development, integration and testing of production-ready units, and validation of software and hardware for qualification and fielding.

Positioning Navigation Timing Software Defined User Equipment (PNT SDUE) is designed to deliver a reprogrammable M-Code receiver hosted on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware, providing robust PNT against navigation warfare and cyber threats. The program also develops Software Defined Antenna Electronics (SDAE) to ingest new satellite signals and support GNSS capability in a software-reprogrammable environment. Activities focus on digital engineering, prototype development, and integration with the R-EGI architecture, supporting the transition of advanced user equipment for the Navigation Technology Satellite Vanguard effort.

The PNT Resiliency, Mods, and Improvements program employs a flexible acquisition strategy, leveraging cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts, engineering change proposals, and Other Transaction Authorities to support rapid prototyping and open standards development. The program also funds civilian pay expenses necessary for program management and execution, and supports full financial audit compliance as required by law. Through these coordinated efforts, the Air Force aims to maintain and enhance PNT capabilities for current and future force requirements, ensuring operational effectiveness in contested environments.