// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
GPS III
GPS III refers to the third generation of Global Positioning System satellites, which provide more accurate positioning, navigation, and timing services. These satellites offer enhanced signals, better resistance to jamming, and improved security for both civilian and military users worldwide.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
GPS III, the U.S. Space Force's third generation of Global Positioning System satellites built by Lockheed Martin, delivers superior Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) capabilities through stronger anti-jamming M-Code and civilian L1C signals, enhancing accuracy, resilience, and security for global military and civilian applications.
BACKGROUND
GPS Block III (previously Block IIIA) consists of the first ten GPS III satellites, which are used to keep the Navstar Global Positioning System operational. Lockheed Martin designed, developed and manufactured the GPS III Non-Flight Satellite Testbed (GNST) and all ten Block III satellites. The first satellite in the series was launched in December 2018.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- GPS Block III
- GPS 3
- Global Positioning System III
- Next-gen GPS
USAGE NOTE
GPS III satellites are critical for modern navigation, military operations, and critical infrastructure, incrementally replacing older GPS satellites to improve overall system robustness.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to GPS III.
The primary contractor responsible for designing and manufacturing the GPS III satellite constellation for the U.S. Space Force.
The governmental organization responsible for acquiring, launching, and operating the GPS III satellites and the overall GPS constellation.
Developed the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX), the ground control segment for the GPS III and legacy GPS constellations.
Developed the Enhanced GPS III Architecture (EGIA) navigation payload for the GPS III satellites, which enables advanced capabilities like the M-code signal.
A leading developer of advanced military GPS receivers and navigation systems, including those compatible with the secure M-code signal from GPS III satellites.
Provides critical navigation payloads and ground antenna systems that are essential components for the GPS III satellites and their operational network.
Develops next-generation military GPS user equipment (MGUE) that allows military users to securely access and utilize the advanced signals, including M-code, broadcast by GPS III.