Global Positioning System III (GPS III)

The Global Positioning System GPS is a satellite-based radio navigation system that provides worldwide military and civil users satellite signals they can process to determine accurate position, velocity, and time. On May 8, 2000, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics USD ATL approved entry into the initial modernization efforts for Navstar GPS. GPS III, an Acquisition Category 1D program, is the next generation Space Vehicle SV that will provide significant enhancements to complete the modernization of the constellation. GPS III complies with 10 United States Code USC 2281, ensuring the continued sustainment and operation of GPS for military and civilian purposes, and 42 USC 14712, continuing as an international standard available on a continuous worldwide basis free of direct user fees.