// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM

M-Code

M-Code is a highly secure and advanced GPS signal used by the U.S. military and authorized allies, designed to be more resistant to jamming and spoofing than standard GPS. It provides improved accuracy and reliability for military operations.

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

M-Code (Military Code) is an encrypted, spectrally efficient Global Positioning System (GPS) signal, broadcast from modernized GPS Block IIR-M, IIF, and III satellites, providing enhanced PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) capabilities for authorized military and government users with superior anti-jamming, anti-spoofing, and integrity features.

BACKGROUND

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is the foundation of the system of military justice of the armed forces of the United States. The UCMJ was established by the United States Congress in accordance with their constitutional authority, per Article I Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, which provides that "The Congress shall have Power. .. to make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land and naval forces" of the United States.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Military Code
  • Modernized GPS Signal
  • Encrypted GPS
  • Secure GPS
  • GPS M-Code

USAGE NOTE

M-Code is critical for precision military operations and must be accessed via M-Code capable receivers, which are often subject to strict export controls.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to M-Code.

  • Lockheed Martin

    Prime contractor for the GPS III satellites, which transmit the M-Code signal, and involved in the overall architecture and modernization of the GPS constellation for military applications.

  • RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies, including Collins Aerospace)

    Collins Aerospace, now part of RTX, is a leading developer and manufacturer of M-Code capable military GPS receivers and advanced anti-jamming/anti-spoofing technologies for a wide range of defense platforms.

  • Northrop Grumman

    Develops and integrates navigation and positioning systems for various military platforms, contributing to the adoption and utilization of M-Code capabilities in defense applications.

  • BAE Systems

    A prominent developer of military-grade GPS receivers, including M-Code capable solutions, along with advanced navigation systems and anti-jamming technology for secure positioning, navigation, and timing.

  • L3Harris Technologies

    Provides advanced navigation systems, secure communications, and precision timing solutions for military users, integrating capabilities to leverage the M-Code signal for enhanced resilience and accuracy.

  • U.S. Space Force / Space Systems Command (SSC)

    The primary U.S. government organization responsible for developing, acquiring, equipping, and sustaining space capabilities, including the GPS constellation and the modernization efforts like M-Code, for military operations.

  • General Dynamics Mission Systems

    Develops and integrates secure communications, computing, and navigation systems for defense, incorporating advanced GPS technologies, including M-Code functionality, into their diverse portfolio of products.

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