The U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) has awarded Raytheon a $ 196.7 million contract extension for the GPS Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) program — despite being years behind schedule. This latest award brings the total OCX contract value to nearly $ 4.5 billion since its inception in 2010. However, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), the total amount is approaching $ 8 billion.
<p>The OCX program, designed to enhance GPS infrastructure, has faced significant setbacks. It is currently <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gpsworld.com/gps-ocx-delays-continue/">about seven years behind</a> the original schedule, with the GAO reporting that the system of 17 ground stations was not ready by its October 2024 deadline. Further testing is required for the system to be operational by December 2025.</p> <p>Despite these challenges, OCX remains critical for modernizing GPS capabilities. The system will enable full M-Code capabilities, providing jamming-resistant GPS signals for military operations in contested environments. OCX is also designed to improve cybersecurity for both military and civilian applications significantly. Once operational, OCX will command all modernized and legacy GPS satellites, managing all civil and military navigation signals.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.gps.gov/systems/gps/control/OCX/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a></p> <p>The program has <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gpsworld.com/gps-ocx-still-delayed-and-lawmakers-are-not-happy/">faced scrutiny</a> due to its delays and cost overruns. The GAO has flagged the program’s delays as a risk to the GPS enterprise, while lawmakers have expressed frustration over the delays and budget increases. Despite this, the Space Force continues investing in the program to enhance GPS capabilities for military and civilian users. OCX is expected to provide improved accuracy, availability and resistance to jamming compared to the previous ground control segment<a target="_blank" href="https://euro-sd.com/2023/10/articles/34769/waiting-for-ultimate-accuracy-the-progress-of-gps-iii/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>. The system will also support the launch and operation of GPS III satellites.</p> <p><p>The post <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.gpsworld.com/raytheon-receives-space-force-gps-ocx-contract-extension/">Raytheon receives Space Force GPS OCX contract extension</a> first appeared on <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.gpsworld.com">GPS World</a>.</p></p>