DOD GPS modernization faces delays, GAO report says
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The Government Accountability Office released a report finding the Department of Defense's GPS modernization efforts continue to face delays. In 2026, DOD canceled the Next Generation Operational Control System ground control system and began modernizing the existing GPS Operational Control Segment instead. The agency said this creates risks for the launch, checkout, and operation of new GPS satellites.
The report said DOD is developing new complementary sources of positioning, navigation, and timing data to mitigate GPS threats. These include satellite-based PNT systems, non-satellite-based PNT systems, and backup timing solutions.
The Air Force continues making progress developing modernized GPS military code receiver cards. However, the agency said challenges remain with fielding and integration. M-code aviation receiver programs continue to encounter development and integration challenges. The Navy is developing an interim solution for its aircraft to use M-code.
The Army and Navy are fielding M-code capable and multi-PNT receivers in ground vehicles, ships, and Army aircraft. The report said all military services are pursuing integration of complementary PNT data into multi-PNT receivers.
The agency said challenges with aligning multiple fragmented PNT efforts across the military services impact DOD's ability to ensure M-code and PNT efforts are completed promptly. Congress mandated a PNT Oversight Council to oversee the portfolio. While the council can make budget-related recommendations to the services, the services are responsible for their own budgets.
DOD has taken some steps to consolidate multiple PNT efforts. The agency cited combining aircraft PNT receivers and M-code receiver card efforts into a single Air Force managed joint program office. The report said benefits of consolidation could include synchronization of schedules and better strategic alignment of funding.
