Raytheon has successfully completed software iteration 1.4 Critical Design Review (iCDR) for the Global Positioning System (GPS) Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX). Successful completion of the iCDR demonstrates that the OCX design is at a high level of maturity and is ready to support GPS III launch readiness.

Software iteration 1.4 provides the initial GPS III command and control capability needed to support the first three launch exercises, leading to the launch and checkout of the first GPS III satellite vehicle.

"This is a major step forward for OCX that demonstrates we are on track to support GPS III launch. OCX will usher in a new era in precision space-based navigation and timing, consolidating GPS satellite operations in a single, efficient, and evolvable control system that is protected against current and future cyber threats," said Ray Kolibaba, GPS OCX program manager for Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems business.

Iterative Development
GPS OCX development is using a commercial best practice iterative software development process that offers improved efficiency and flexibility in military satellite ground system development.

The iterative approach allows the ground system development process to be modified to meet the changing needs of the program, including capability and schedule modifications, independent from the GPS III space vehicle development.

Following OCX Preliminary Design Review in June 2011, the traditional "waterfall" approach to CDR was revised to recognize the iterative software development process.

Iteration 1.4 iCDR is the first test of the new iterative CDR process and demonstrates that both Raytheon and the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center have fully integrated this commercial best practice in the acquisition process.

GPS OCX provides command, control and mission management for the GPS constellation, including IIR-M, IIF and the new GPS III satellites, in a system that is protected against current and future cyber threats.

OCX enables full navigation messaging on the new L2 and L5 civil signals as well as the new, jam-resistant military signal (M-Code), providing essential new capabilities to military, civil and commercial users worldwide.

OCX supports the new L1C civil signal on GPS III satellites to provide interoperability with international global navigation satellite systems, such as Europe's Galileo.

With its built-in automation and compact, efficient, service-oriented architecture, OCX increases operator efficiency, reduces operator requirements, is less expensive to maintain than current GPS control systems, and provides the ability to evolve as the GPS system evolves.