Space Force orders two more GPS satellites from Lockheed Martin

The U.S. Space Force has awarded Lockheed Martin a $514 million contract to manufacture two additional GPS IIIF satellites, continuing efforts to modernize the nation’s satellite navigation infrastructure.

The latest order covers GPS IIIF Space Vehicles 23 and 24, increasing Lockheed Martin’s total production commitment under the program to 14 satellites. The next-generation spacecraft are designed to replace aging satellites in the existing GPS constellation while providing enhanced performance and resilience.

GPS IIIF satellites introduce several upgrades aimed at improving both military and civilian positioning, navigation, and timing services. Among the enhancements are significantly stronger anti-jamming capabilities through Regional Military Protection features, expanded M-Code support for secure military operations, and advanced digital navigation payloads.

The satellites are also being built on Lockheed Martin’s updated LM2100 Combat Bus platform, which incorporates improvements in cybersecurity, power systems, propulsion, and onboard electronics. These enhancements are intended to increase mission reliability and operational flexibility throughout the satellites’ service lives.

The contract reflects the Space Force’s continued investment in maintaining a robust and modern GPS network as older spacecraft exceed their original design lifespans. In addition to satellite production, Lockheed Martin has been supporting upgrades to the GPS ground segment to ensure compatibility with future generations of navigation satellites.

Production of the GPS IIIF fleet is underway at Lockheed Martin’s facilities in Colorado, where the company is employing advanced manufacturing techniques, including digital engineering tools and augmented reality applications, to streamline assembly and testing processes.