Raytheon Concludes Iteration 1.4 Critical Design Review for GPS OCX

The software iteration 1.4 Critical Design Review (iCDR) for the Global Positioning System (GPS) Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) has been successfully accomplished by Raytheon Company.

This achievement signifies the increased maturity level of OCX design and its convenience in supporting GPS III launch readiness.

Software iteration 1.4 extends the initial GPS III command and control potential required for executing the first three launch exercises. With this unique capability, launch as well as checkout of the first GPS III satellite vehicle can be achieved.

According to Ray Kolibaba, GPS OCX program manager of Raytheon, this achievement leads to OCX advancement, in addition to proving the company’s intent to support GPS III launch. OCX will progress in navigation and timing based on precision space. The entire GPS satellite operations are packed within a single and versatile control system that is secure from both existing and future cyber threats.

Based on a commercial best practice iterative software development process, GPS OCX development will be carried out. This process extends versatility and expertise in military satellite ground system development. Using this iterative approach, the process of ground system development process can be customized to comply with the altering needs of the program, such as capability and schedule modifications, excluding GPS III space vehicle development.

After the OCX Preliminary Design Review in June 2011, the conventional "waterfall" approach to CDR was modified to support the iterative software development process. Being the new iterative CDR process’ first test, Iteration 1.4 iCDR shows that Raytheon as well as the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center have completely incorporated this commercial practice in their acquisition process.

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