Military Organization Space Force Finalizes Adoption of Advanced GPS Management System, Following Prolonged Implementation Hurdles
The GPS Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) was conceived in 2007 with the aim of modernising the GPS ground control segment to manage newer GPS satellites, improve security, accuracy, and anti-jamming capabilities. However, the journey of OCX has been far from smooth.
In 2010, Raytheon, now known as RTX, was awarded the development contract, marking the formal start of the program. The objective was to replace the legacy GPS Operational Control Segment (OCS). The complexity of OCX, particularly the cybersecurity requirements and inadequate early systems engineering, led to delays and cost growth. By 2016, the program cost grew beyond $4.25 billion, triggering a critical Nunn-McCurdy breach.
OCX development was structured in blocks (phased deliveries), with functionality gradually added. Block 0 provided initial prototypes; Blocks 1 and 2 aimed for operational capabilities, including control of GPS III satellites and enhanced features like M-Code secure military signals. The completion of infrastructure such as OCX monitoring stations was reached by mid-2021, but full operational acceptance and transition required additional integration and testing phases. The U.S. Space Force accepted OCX from contractor RTX in July 2021, signaling readiness to proceed toward operational deployment likely by late 2021.
The total program cost roughly doubled from initial estimates, nearing $7.7 billion by 2021, more than twice the 2012 estimated $3.7 billion cost, reflecting technical challenges, delays, and expanded scope. The next phase, Block 3F, is already in development to enable control of GPS III Follow-On satellites scheduled for launch beginning in 2027.
The GPS III Follow-On satellites are expected to start launching in 2027, and the OCX system is crucial for managing these advanced spacecraft. Col. Stephen Hobbs, commander of Mission Delta 31, stated that the update is key to enabling enhancements like anti-jamming, improved accuracy, and secure geolocation using M-Code.
Former space acquisition executive Frank Calvelli referred to OCX as "troubled," an "albatross," and a "problem child." Cordell DeLaPena, program executive officer for military communications and position, navigation, and timing, called OCX the "hardest" program he's ever worked on in his 25-year career. Despite these challenges, the OCX system is now on the brink of operational use, paving the way for the modernisation of the GPS constellation control infrastructure.
This history highlights the difficulties of upgrading complex space-based infrastructure systems with advanced security, software, and integration demands, as well as evolving requirements and budget constraints over many years. The long and arduous road of the OCX system serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in space technology development and the importance of careful planning and execution.
[1] SpaceNews. (2021). OCX system nears operational use with cost near $7.7 billion. [online] Available at: https://spacenews.com/ocx-system-nears-operational-use-with-cost-near-7-7-billion/
[2] SpaceNews. (2021). OCX system on track for late 2021 operational debut. [online] Available at: https://spacenews.com/ocx-system-on-track-for-late-2021-operational-debut/
- The Pentagon's Space Force is preparing to deploy the GPS Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) by late 2021, a system crucial for managing the upcoming GPS III Follow-On satellites.
- The GPS III Follow-On satellites, scheduled for launch starting in 2027, will require the advancements in anti-jamming, improved accuracy, and secure geolocation provided by the OCX system.
- The development of OCX, a complex program involving military, space, and aerospace technology, has been challenging, with cost escalations and delays attributed to cybersecurity requirements, inadequate systems engineering, and evolving requirements.
- The history of the OCX system stands as a testament to the complexities of upgrading space-based infrastructure systems, emphasizing the importance of diligent planning, execution, and adherence to budget constraints in the field of science and technology.
