The M-Code receiver operates using a more powerful signal, resistant to cyber threats. Photo source: Rockwell Collins.Rockwell Collins recently delivered the last of a 770 Military-Code (M-Code) GPS receiver order to the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center (USAF SMC). Committed to the Military GPS User Equipment (MGUE) program, the M-Code receiver operates using a more powerful signal, resistant to cyber threats.
Rockwell Collins recently delivered the last of a 770 Military-Code (M-Code) GPS receiver order to the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center (USAF SMC). Committed to the Military GPS User Equipment (MGUE) program, the M-Code receiver operates using a more powerful signal, resistant to cyber threats.
“From advanced fifth-generation aircraft to ground and maritime applications, this technology meets the warfighters’ needs for reliable and secure GPS navigation for increased situational awareness,” said Troy Brunk, vice president and general manager, Communication, Navigation & Electronic Warfare Systems for Rockwell Collins. “This delivery demonstrates a major advancement in military technology.”
M-Code not only enhances traditional GPS for military use, but coexists with existing signals without interfering with current or future civilian or military user equipment. It is also designed to be autonomous so users can calculate their positions solely using the M-Code signal compared to existing signals where more than one signal code is required. M-Code receivers can be applied to new and retrofitted platforms.
Rockwell Collins began work on this MGUE contract in 2012. Created by USAF SMC, the program will enhance GPS capabilities for the warfighter where current signals may be unavailable. As part of the contract, the company developed, delivered and will aid in the transition to M-Code receivers, a process complemented by Rockwell Collins’ decades of experience and expertise in modernization solutions.
Last October, Inside GNSS reported that L-3 Communications had announced that its next-generation M-Code GPS user equipment completed the final step in a government security certification process. The development and certification of the technology was performed under the MGUE program, led by the Space and Missile Systems Center’s (SMC) GPS Directorate at Los Angeles Air Force Base.
Additionally, a Washington View column in the May/June 2016 of Inside GNSS addressed M-Code updates and benefits. To read the full article, click here.
