Space Force Seeks Proposals for New GPS Satellite System to Enhance Resilience

The U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command is seeking proposals for a new program called Resilient GPS, aimed at developing smaller, more affordable GPS satellites.

Supported by the Space Enterprise Consortium, R-GPS will augment the command’s current 31-satellite GPS network by adding smaller satellites that can broadcast essential navigational signals for military and civilian use, SpaceNews reported.

According to a spokesperson from the SSC, R-GPS is intended as a complementary system, providing an extra layer of resilience against potential disruptions to GPS services, such as jamming and spoofing, as highlighted by recent conflicts.

The command plans to select up to five innovative and cost-effective design concepts for further development, with initial awards expected by fall 2024. The program is exclusively for SpEC Consortium members.

R-GPS is part of a broader effort to strengthen GPS capabilities and one of two programs being fast-tracked under the Quick Start authority. However, the program faced some skepticism from lawmakers, particularly about its cost-effectiveness.

The Space Force aims to have eight R-GPS satellites operational by 2027 or 2028.