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Pentagon Funds RTX To Keep GPS Ground Ops Running During OCX Review

The stopgap award signals a possible shift to keep the legacy control system in service instead of finishing the troubled OCX overhaul.

Overview

  • RTX won a $45.3 million contract change to support GPS satellite ground operations, including launch and checkout for the next GPS III spacecraft.
  • The award is an unpriced change order for one year, which lets work start now while the government and contractor settle final costs.
  • Pentagon officials are weighing whether to halt full development of the Next Generation Operational Control System and fold usable software into the current ground system.
  • The legacy Architecture Evolution Plan, upgraded by Lockheed Martin since 2016, has grown into a viable alternative as OCX slipped and costs climbed.
  • Senior leaders say the decision sits with Air Force Secretary Troy Meink and will route through acquisition chief Michael Duffey, with reporting noting contractor-led cancellation options under review.