The US Air Force (USAF) has awarded a contract to Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) for global positioning system (GPS) III launch services.

Valued at around $96m, the National Security Space (NSS) launch services contract covers launch vehicle production, mission integration, launch operations, spaceflight worthiness and mission unique operations for the GPS III mission.

The second NSS contract requires SpaceX to launch GPS III-3 satellite from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, in February 2019 to provide improved anti-jamming capabilities and accuracy for precision navigation and timing.

"The competitive award of the GPS III Launch Services contract to SpaceX directly supports SMC’s mission of delivering resilient and affordable space capabilities to our nation."

The satellite is said to incorporate the common L1C signal, which is compatible with the European Space Agency’s Galileo global navigation satellite system and complement current services with the addition of new civil and military signals.

SpaceX was selected through a competitive bidding process, which received two offers in total.

USAF Space and SMC commander programme executive officer lieutenant general Samuel Greaves said: “The competitive award of the GPS III Launch Services contract to SpaceX directly supports SMC’s mission of delivering resilient and affordable space capabilities to our nation.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Expected to be completed by April 2019, work under the contract will be carried out at Hawthorne, California; Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida; and McGregor, Texas.

The contract has been awarded under the current Phase IA procurement strategy, which reintroduced competition for national security space launch services.

Last year, SpaceX received the first NSS launch services contract, worth around $82m, to launch GPS III-2 satellite in May 2018.