Ross Wilkers
Lockheed Martin and Raytheon recently completed the first launch readiness test for the Air Force‘s GPS III satellite fleet, which is scheduled for deployment in 2014.
Lockheed said the three-day test evaluated the satellite’s command and control functions.
The companies also tested software and hardware of the GPS III satellite needed for on-console procedures for launch and early orbit mission.
Keoki Jackson, vice president of Lockheed“™s navigation systems mission area, said in a release the satellites will be used in the military, civilian and commercial sectors.
According to Lockheed, the GPS III mission readiness timeline includes five short-duration exercises and six five-day mission rehearsals leading up to launch.
Lockheed holds a $238 million contract to produce satellite numbers three and four and Raytheon developed the GPS operational control system.
