The Space and Missile Systems Center on Feb. 25 awarded the contract for the next-generation GPS control segment, known as OCX, to Raytheon. The contract’s initial value is $886 million, with sustainment options that could take it to $1.5 billion over five years, according to an SMC release. Col. Dave Madden at SMC said, the “flexible architecture” OCX is “urgently needed not only to enable new warfighter capabilities but also to put the new GPS III space vehicles into mission operations.” Raytheon will develop and install hardware and software at control centers at Schriever AFB, Colo., and Vandenberg AFB, Calif., and deploy advanced monitor stations at remote sites. In a company release, Bob Canty, GPS VP and program manager, said, “By selecting Raytheon, the Air Force recognizes our experience and commitment to take GPS to the next level.” Raytheon had vied against Northrop Grumman for the OCX program.
Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, nominee to be chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the Defense Department needs to upgrade its electronic warfare capability and its EW training ranges; just as his predecessor said at his own confirmation hearing.