Sierra Space demonstrates resilient GPS technology for US Space Force

Sierra Space, a commercial space and defense technology company, has successfully completed another demonstration of its resilient GPS (R-GPS) technology for the U.S. Space Force. This achievement marks the third major milestone for the program, which is designed to enhance the resilience of GPS infrastructure against threats such as jamming and spoofing. The recent demonstration included early integration of R-GPS satellite technology using FlatSat flight software and hardware subsystem testing, as well as successful communication with ground software systems.

The R-GPS effort is part of a broader initiative by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command to develop smaller, more cost-effective GPS satellites. Sierra Space was awarded a Quick Start contract in September 2024 to produce design concepts for these satellites, aiming to rapidly bring advanced technology to the national security space sector. The company’s progress comes just six months after the program’s inception, highlighting its ability to accelerate technology development in response to evolving defense needs.

GPS technology is integral to both civilian life and military operations, supporting applications that range from smartphone navigation to critical defense activities. As adversarial threats become more sophisticated, the need for resilient GPS systems has grown. The R-GPS program addresses this by planning to augment the existing GPS architecture with a network of smaller satellites, which would provide additional layers of security and rapid deployment capabilities.

The latest testing milestone demonstrated the flow of commands and telemetry between Sierra Space’s ground software and a ground stations service provider, establishing that the technology can operate effectively between orbit and ground-based facilities. The FlatSat testing format, where satellite components are evaluated while laid out flat, allowed for early integration of flight software and hardware subsystems.