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GPS IIIF

by US Space ForceUS

Replace an ageing GPS fleet, nearly half past its design life, with satellites whose signals are harder to jam, more accurate and that also relay distress beacons, keeping navigation and timing working worldwide.

ProtoStage 2 of 5

14 satellites on order from Lockheed Martin; first launch expected in 2028 after production delays.

Updated 16 Jun 2026Checked 11 Oct0 updates this week

Milestones

Next · First GPS IIIF launch
  1. Lockheed Martin wins contract for up to 22 satellites14 Sep 2018Complete.
  2. First four GPS IIIF structures assembledMay 2025Complete.
  3. SV21–22 ordered for $509.7MMay 2025Complete.
  4. Last GPS III satellite (SV10) launches on Falcon 9Apr 2026Complete.
  5. SV23–24 ordered for $514.4M; 14 now on contractJun 2026Complete.
  6. First GPS IIIF launchTarget 2028+24 mooriginally 2026Current milestone.

Most important updates

Upcoming

  1. 2028First GPS IIIF launch+24 mooriginally 2026 (next)
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