Future GPS satellites may carry military communication payloads

On August 2nd, Aerospace News reported that the US Space Force stated in an information gathering document that the next generation of Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites may carry other payloads to provide communication services. The information solicitation issued by the Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC) last month requested contractors to promote the idea of carrying communication payloads on GPS-3F satellites. GPS-3F is the latest model of GPS satellite, currently being developed by Lockheed Martin.

GPS satellites are used to provide positioning, navigation, and timing data. The Chinese military is currently deploying GPS-3 satellites. The first satellite of the more advanced GPS-3F type is expected to be launched in 2026. These new satellites will have more space and sufficient power to support their launch. The information solicitation document states that the Chinese military is considering carrying satellite communication payloads on GPS satellites from 2030, with the preferred frequency bands being X and Ka, but other satellite communication frequencies may also be considered.

The use of GPS satellites for space-based communication will add an additional layer of communication connectivity capability to the US military in mid Earth orbit. GPS satellites operate in an orbit at an altitude of approximately 20000 kilometers. The US military currently relies on communication satellites in a geostationary orbit of approximately 36000 kilometers. Low Earth orbit and medium Earth orbit satellite communication services are now provided by commercial manufacturers. Having satellite communication services from GPS satellites will provide the US military with another option to enhance connectivity.

The information solicitation document states that "due to the improvement of spacecraft efficiency and launch vehicle capabilities, the common module of the 3F satellite is expected to have surplus satellite size, weight, and power (SWaP) margin, which can be used to carry other payloads. The first payload must be delivered in 2029 in order to be launched in 2030. The solicitation letter states that it is possible to launch an additional 9 at a rate of approximately two per year thereafter. The solicitation document states that the payload must be delivered approximately one year before the satellite is transported to the launch site for installation on GPS satellites. The satellite communication payload carried should be able to operate for at least 10-15 years.

The information solicitation letter states that this time only general information is solicited from potential manufacturers, rather than conducting contract bidding.

Source: Hang Xiaoyu