Homeland Security Invites Industry Participation in PNT Critical Infrastructure Study

Borden Named TAG Vice-President and COO

Technology Advancement Group (TAG) has named John Borden as its new executive vice-president and chief operating officer (COO). Borden previously was product director, GNSS systems and vice-president, programs and technology, for the company.

Borden, who oversees TAG’s day-to-day operations, joined the company when it was awarded a U.S. Army contract to provide program of record (POR) precise positioning service — GPS survey (PPS GPS-S).

IFEN Launches NCS TITAN GNSS Simulator

IFEN has announced its new NCS TITAN multi-GNSS, multi-frequency and multi-RF output simulator.

With up to 256 channels and up to four RF outputs per chassis, the TITAN design avoids the extra complexity and cost of using additional signal generators or intricate architectures involv¬ing several hardware boxes, IFEN says, which improves reliability without compromising functionality.

GPS Networking Introduces Dual Antenna Rack Splitter

GPS Networking has introduced its dual-antenna rack mount splitter (DRMALDCBS1X16) that is ideal for timing and testing applications, the company said. The unit features two antenna inputs, 16 outputs, flat group delay, and high-isolation option.

Spirent Announces Interference Detection and Analysis Unit

Spirent Communications plc’s Positioning Technology Unit has announced the GSS200D Interference Detection and Analysis solution, developed as part of Spirent’s partnership with Nottingham Scientific Limited.

The GSS200D comprises field-based hardware and a secure data server for automatic capture and analysis of GNSS radio frequency interference. According to the Paignton, UK–based company, deployments of GSS200D probes provide users with a thorough understanding of the RF interference (RFI) environment at sites of interest.

Delivery of First GPS III Satellite Delayed by Ceramic Capacitor Testing

The first GPS III satellite’s delivery will be delayed by four months because of a Lockheed Martin subcontractor’s failure to test a ceramic capacitor.

The satellite, which was expected to be delivered in August, is now scheduled for shipment in December, according to a Bloomberg news article.

Lockheed Martin Awarded $395 Million GPS III Contract Option

Littleton, Colorado-based Lockheed Martin Space Systems has received a $395 million U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center contract option to build two additional GPS III satellites. The contract option calls for long-lead and production hardware to manufacture GPS III space vehicles (SVs) 9 and 10.

“The GPS III SV 9 and 10 satellites are expected to be ready for launch in 2022, thus sustaining the GPS constellation,” said Lt. Gen. Samuel Greaves, Space and Missile Systems Center’s commander.

GPS MGUE Program Nears Milestone B Decision

The program to develop M-code capable receivers for military equipment is poised to enter a new phase this fall as the GPS Directorate seeks approval to start the engineering activities that will lead, ultimately, to full production.

General John Hyten: Interview with U.S. Air Force Space Commander

Since Gen. John E. Hyten assumed leadership of Air Force Space Command in August 2014 he has been wrestling with a host of challenges including delays in the modernization programs for the GPS space segment and GPS military user equipment.

Air Force Disposes of Last GPS IIA Satellite

The U.S. Air Force’s 2nd Space Operations Squadron (2SOPS) at the 50th Space Wing, Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, has moved the longest-serving GPS satellite, space vehicle number (SVN) 23, into a disposal orbit several hundred miles above the operational GPS constellation.

The satellite, which was launched on November 26, 1990, had a rough start, the Air Force said. After early-orbit operations and initial stabilization in December 1990, SVN 23’s solar array stopped working.