Harris’ MDU for GPS IIIF satellites
Harris Corporation has been selected by Lockheed Martin to provide its fully digital navigation signals for the US Air Force’s (USAF’s) first two GPS III Follow-On (GPS IIIF) satellites, the company announced on 9 April.
Under the $243 million contract, Harris will provide its GPS IIIF fully-digital mission data unit (MDU). The system will provide more powerful signals, assure flawless clock operations for GPS users and will add flexibility to adapt to advances in GPS technology. It will provide improved capabilities over Harris’ 70%- digital MDU used for GPS III Space Vehicles 01-10.
The new MDU also offers the air force a smooth transition to its GPS OCX ground control segment.
In September 2018, the USAF selected Lockheed Martin, with Harris as its navigation signals partner, to build up to 22 GPS IIIF satellites, with a total estimated contract value of up to $7.2 billion.
The first GPS IIIF satellite, SV11, is expected to be available for launch in 2026.
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