L3Harris Technologies to Develop Resilient GPS Satellite Concepts for U.S. Space Force

L3Harris Technologies has been awarded a significant contract by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command to create advanced concepts for the Resilient Global Positioning System (R-GPS) program. This groundbreaking initiative is focused on fortifying the resilience of GPS infrastructure by incorporating cost-effective small satellites into the broader GPS constellation.

A Modernized GPS Framework for National Security

The R-GPS program is an ambitious step toward enhancing the current 31-satellite GPS constellation that serves both military and civilian users worldwide. Its goal is to provide uninterrupted positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services, even in the face of sophisticated threats like jamming, spoofing, and permanent disruptions. To achieve this, the program plans to add up to eight new satellites to the constellation, equipped with advanced capabilities to detect and mitigate potential threats.

Ed Zoiss, President of Space and Airborne Systems at L3Harris, stated, “Our mission is to protect national security and ensure global accessibility to reliable GPS technologies.” He emphasized the company's extensive experience in GPS-related projects, positioning it to deliver cutting-edge solutions for evolving challenges.

L3Harris' Expertise in GPS Technology

L3Harris Technologies has a long-standing relationship with the U.S. GPS system, being the sole provider of navigation technology for every U.S. GPS satellite to date. The company has contributed critical components, including control systems, monitoring receivers, and user equipment, which are central to its proposed solutions for the R-GPS program.

One of the key innovations in L3Harris' approach is its modular and scalable PNT technology. This design not only ensures adaptability to different operational scenarios but also leverages commercial interfaces to align with the Space Force's dynamic requirements. The company’s role as the prime contractor for the Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NTS-3) program further solidifies its leadership in advancing GPS technology. NTS-3 is aimed at testing and validating next-generation GPS features, enabling quicker implementation into operational systems.

Technical Specifications of the Proposed Satellites

While the R-GPS satellites are in the concept development phase, early indications suggest several advanced specifications:

• Enhanced Anti-Jamming and Anti-Spoofing Capabilities: These satellites will be equipped with cutting-edge signal processing technologies to counter electronic interference and cyber threats.
• Reduced Weight and Cost: By leveraging small satellite technology, the program aims to achieve cost efficiency without compromising performance.
• Rapid Deployment: Modular design allows for quicker production and deployment timelines compared to traditional GPS satellites.
• Advanced PNT Algorithms: Improved precision in positioning and navigation calculations to support both military operations and commercial applications.

Beyond R-GPS: A Vision for the Future

The R-GPS initiative reflects a broader trend within the U.S. Space Force to modernize and secure space-based infrastructure. By integrating innovative satellite designs, the program not only addresses current threats but also lays the groundwork for future advancements in space technology.

L3Harris' commitment to delivering results on accelerated timelines underscores its ability to adapt to the fast-paced needs of the Space Force, ensuring that critical PNT services remain resilient in an increasingly contested space domain.

This collaboration between L3Harris and the U.S. Space Force signifies a transformative approach to GPS modernization, blending innovation with national security imperatives.