U.S. Air Force Weighs Faster Move from GPS 3 to New Generation

摘要

As it prepares to launch its fourth GPS 2F satellite, part of the ongoing modernization of its positioning, navigation and timing constellation, the U.S. Air Force has left open the possibility of truncating its planned procurement of next-generation GPS 3 spacecraft. Currently the Air Force has eight GPS 3 satellites either fully or partially under contract with Denver-based Lockheed Martin Space Systems, and has signaled its intent to buy another 12 with improved capabilities But the service has acknowledged the possibility of scrapping the follow-on procurement in favor of a new system. During a discussion of the service's GPS 3 plans at an April 25 hearing of the House Armed Services strategic forces subcommittee, Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.) asked, "Is it better to continue that as opposed to starting a whole new fourth generation?"