Raytheon’s Ground Control System Backs First USAF GPS III Satellite Launch; Dave Wajsgras Quoted

A Raytheon-built ground control platform has supported the launch of the U.S. Air Force’s first GPS III satellite.

Raytheon said Sunday the GPS Next-Generation Operational Control System will help steer the GPS III Space Vehicle 01 to its final orbit for approximately 10 days.

“The GPS OCX Block 0 launch and checkout system is foundational to the improved precision, navigation and timing of the entire constellation,” said Dave Wajsgras, president of Raytheon’s intelligence, information and services business.

Wajsgras, a four-time Wash100 winner, added the company expects GPS OCX to provide the highest level of cybersecurity protection to the satellites.

The Lockheed Martin-built GPS III SV01 satellite lifted off Sunday aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Lockheed said the ground control system is meant to support future GPS III satellite launches to help deploy anti-jam capabilities and a new civil signal.

Raytheon noted that its joint venture with General Dynamics’ information technology business – RGNext – offered operational services to ensure the Falcon 9 rocket’s safe launch.