The Space Force is making significant strides to finalize its long-delayed programs aimed at upgrading ground systems and receivers for Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites. This includes a strategic decision to replace the Air Force B-2 bomber as the primary test platform for airborne receivers designed to utilize the jam-resistant M-Code signal, according to Cordell DeLaPena, the program executive officer for Military Communications & Positioning, Navigation, and Timing at Space Systems Command (SSC).
During his remarks at SSC’s annual Space Industry Days conference in Los Angeles, DeLaPena emphasized the urgency of completing ongoing projects by 2025, stating, “There is a gun to our head to finish in 2025.”
A focal point of the modernization effort is the troubled Next-Generation Operational Control System (OCX), developed by RTX (formerly Raytheon), which is essential for enabling approximately 700 weapon systems across the U.S. military to access the encrypted M-Code signal fully. Despite its promise, OCX has been criticized for significant delays, as it was originally slated to start operations over a decade ago.
DeLaPena reported, “OCX is almost done with the lab development. Operator testing starts next month. There’s one final acquisition program baseline (APB) milestone left on that program, called ‘ready to transition operations.’ We’re going to hit it before the end of the year.”
The Space Force is also revamping its approach to field the M-Code user kit through the Military GPS User Equipment (MGUE) program, which has faced longstanding challenges. DeLaPena noted that the Space Force is responsible for developing the microchips and microelectronics that process M-Code signals, while each military branch develops its receivers and radios.
MGUE program has two phases: Increment 1 focuses on creating military-specific ASIC chips for integration across platforms, including Army Strykers, Marine Corps Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), and Navy DDG-class destroyers. Increment 2 aims to deliver a more compact and powerful ASIC chip for handheld radios and precision-guided munitions.
DeLaPena stressed the importance of completing MGUE Increment 1 by highlighting its successful certification for terrestrial platforms. “The Army is buying it big time for their users, for their Strykers. The Marine Corps for their JLTVs. In September, I certified the maritime platform, which is the Navy destroyer, the DDG,” he stated.
In a notable adjustment, the final APB milestone for MGUE Increment 1 will involve certification for aviation platforms. Since the Air Force could not provide a B-2 for testing, the SSC proposed using an Army Gray Eagle unmanned aerial vehicle as the test platform. This proposal received approval from Frank Calvelli, the Department of the Air Force’s space acquisition czar, after coordination with the Defense Department, the Army, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
DeLaPena affirmed the commitment to advancing the MGUE Increment 1 program, pledging, “We are pressing ahead with MGUE Increment 1, and we’re going to meet that final milestone in 2025.”
