Lockheed Martin Launches Final GPS III Satellite, Begins Production of 12 GPS IIIF Satellites
Lockheed Martin launched its tenth and final GPS III satellite, SV10, boosting constellation accuracy threefold and anti-jamming capability eightfold with an optical crosslink demonstration payload. Production of 12 GPS IIIF satellites will add secure M-Code signals and a 60-fold boost in military anti-jamming for over six billion users.
1. Launch of Final GPS III Satellite
Early on April 21, Lockheed Martin successfully launched GPS III Space Vehicle 10 (SV10) from Cape Canaveral, completing the GPS III series. SV10 secured signal acquisition shortly after liftoff and is now managed by Lockheed Martin's Denver Launch & Checkout Operations Center pending integration into the operational control network.
2. Advanced Payload Features
SV10 carries an optical crosslink demonstration payload that enables direct satellite-to-satellite communication in orbit, enhancing on-orbit resilience and reducing reliance on ground stations. It also hosts a Digital Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard clock for precise timekeeping critical to both military and civilian GPS applications.
3. GPS IIIF Production and Future Upgrades
With SV10 in orbit, Lockheed Martin shifts focus to building 12 GPS IIIF satellites at its Denver facility. The IIIF block will introduce Regional Military Protection for a 60-fold increase in anti-jamming performance, secure M-Code signals for warfighters and sustained accuracy improvements for six billion civilian users.