US Space Force targeting more affordable GPS satellites

The US Space Force is seeking smaller, cheaper, and more resilient GPS satellites, and has awarded study contracts to four companies—Sierra Space, L3Harris, Astranis, and Axient (recently acquired by Astrion)—to develop early concepts for its Resilient GPS (R-GPS) program.

This initiative aims to address growing concerns about the vulnerability of GPS, particularly in light of electronic warfare tactics employed by adversaries like Russia, which has frequently jammed GPS signals during the war in Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

The R-GPS program, with a $1 billion budget over the next five years, targets satellites costing $50 to $80 million each—far less than the $250 million per unit for current GPS spacecraft. This lower cost will allow the Space Force to deploy a larger number of satellites, creating redundancy and resilience against potential threats, such as signal jamming and spoofing. The satellites will include both civil and military signals, with enhanced anti-jam capabilities through M-code.

The companies selected for the concept phase are focusing on affordable, flexible designs. Sierra Space, for example, is considering modular spacecraft that can be easily upgraded with new payloads. L3Harris plans to leverage its long history in positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technologies while exploring commercial suppliers for satellite components. Astrion aims to create modular satellites capable of handling multiple functions, potentially enhancing security with more advanced M-code and regional military protection.

In addition to pushing for affordability and flexibility, the Space Force emphasizes speed, with the first satellites expected to launch by 2028. However, some members of Congress have raised concerns about the program’s approach, questioning whether additional satellites will adequately counter GPS jamming threats. Despite these concerns, the Space Force is working to address the issues and secure further funding for R-GPS, which could eventually replace or supplement the existing GPS constellation.

By Vafa Guliyeva