M-Code Manages Crucial GPS MUE Step Using Raytheon Modules For SMC

The GPS Wing announced the Raytheon Modernized User Equipment team has achieved live satellite M-Code tracking with an MUE receiver.

The team has developed both the modernized versions of the Avionics GPS Receiver Application Module and Ground Based GPS Receiver Applications Module receivers under the MUE Receiver Card Development Program awarded in June of 2006.  This effort was performed using a Raytheon GB-GRAM-M. M-Code acquisition and tracking is one of many steps taken towards completion of the MUE receiver, but a very important step that indicates the proper operation of many receiver functions.  The team will continue integration throughout the summer culminating in the delivery of pre-production GRAM-S/M and GB-GRAM-M modules to the GPS Wing in November of this year.  The GB-GRAM-M and GRAM-S/M will replace legacy GB-GRAM and GRAM-S embedded GPS receivers in systems such as the Raven unmanned air vehicle and Miniature Airborne GPS Receiver and provide full modernized capabilities for the warfighter.   

       The team’s accomplishments thus far have enabled the continued success of GPS modernization efforts and are critical to the delivery of advanced GPS capabilities to support the warfighter in the field. The current GPS constellation has the most satellites and the greatest capability ever and the Air Force remains committed to ensuring a continued high level of GPS services and capabilities for users to receive the maximum benefit of the positioning, navigation and timing services.  There are currently 30 satellites orbiting the Earth actively providing PNT services to users 24/7, 365 days-a-year. The Space and Missile Systems Center, located at Los Angeles Air Force Base, California, is the U.S. Air Force’s center of acquisition excellence for acquiring and developing military space systems including GPS, military satellite communications, defense meteorological satellites, space launch and range systems, satellite control network, space based infrared systems, intercontinental ballistic missile systems and space situational awareness capabilities.