US Space Force prepares for imminent launch of GPS III satellite
The US Space Force plans to launch a new GPS III satellite in late May. The launch is intended to demonstrate the ability to quickly prepare and launch satellites into orbit in a much shorter timeframe than previously.
Here's What We Know
The Space Forces already have experience in implementing similar launches. In December 2024, as part of the first Rapid Response Trailblazer mission, the GPS III satellite was successfully launched into orbit using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Preparations for the launch lasted only a few months, although this process usually takes up to two years.
The satellite, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, was first flown from the company's facility in Littleton, Colorado, to the Buckley Space Force Base, and then by C-17 to the Space Force Station at Cape Canaveral in Florida. It arrived at the station on 3 April. Delta 31 is currently conducting initial processing of the spacecraft.
GPS III, developed by Lockheed Martin. Illustration: Lockheed Martin
According to Malik Musawir, Lockheed's vice president of navigation systems, the company currently has only two GPS III satellites left to launch before the end of the year. Then the first launch of the updated version of the satellite - GPS IIIF - is expected in late 2026 or early 2027. These satellites will have improved interference protection and an upgraded civil signal.
Currently, there are at least 31 GPS satellites in orbit, including both older models and the latest GPS III. In response to the growing threats of signal jamming and tampering, the Space Force is working to strengthen the navigation system's architecture.
One of the areas of focus is the Resilient GPS programme, which will see the launch of a new constellation of small satellites. Three companies have already been awarded contracts to build prototypes, and the first batch of eight satellites is expected to be launched by 2028.
An analysis of the positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) system architecture is also underway, the results of which should determine the future roadmap for the development of these capabilities. The study is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025.
Source: Defence News
