Raytheon completes GPS OCX test milestone

Raytheon has completed its factory qualification testing on the launch and checkout system (LCS) of the US Air Force's Global Positioning System Next Generation Operational Control System (GPS OCX), the company announced on 17 January.

The new system will provide enhanced performance, effective use of modern civil and military signals and secure information-sharing with advanced cyber protection.

Raytheon has tested 74 OCX segment requirements to verify whether the LCS meets the air force's requirements. The company will qualify remaining segment requirements and move on to site acceptance test, which is the final test phase, following delivery of the OCX LCS to the air force in 2017.

The GPS modernisation programme will yield new positioning, navigation and timing capabilities for US military and civilian users. The GPS OCX is replacing the current GPS operational control system and will support the launch of the GPS III satellites.

Bill Sullivan, vice president and program manager for Raytheon's GPS OCX, said: 'The completion of the factory qualification test proves we can meet the US Air Force requirements and are on a path to delivering the OCX LCS in 2017. This critical system will enable the launch of the GPS III satellites, which represents the first major capability deployment in the US Air Force's effort to modernise GPS.'