Space Force kills OCX GPS ground control system, citing ‘insurmountable’ challenges
Space Force has cancelled the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) contract due to insurmountable challenges, as announced on April 17th. The program, managed by RTX, incurred costs of $6.27 billion, significantly exceeding initial estimates. Moving forward, the Space Force will enhance the existing GPS ground system, awarding Lockheed Martin a $105 million contract for related upgrades.
Pentagon officially ends OCX program, citing risk and delays
Pentagon officially terminated the OCX program on April 20, concluding a 15-year effort to modernize the Global Positioning System ground system. The decision, made on April 17, cited unacceptable risks and delays. The Space Force awarded Lockheed Martin a $105 million contract to upgrade the existing Architecture Evolution Plan system to support newer GPS satellites.
Saildrone unveils new medium unmanned surface vessel for anti-sub warfare, ISR
Saildrone has unveiled the Spectre, a new medium unmanned surface vessel (MUSV) designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The Spectre features two variants: the Silent Endurance and Stealth Strike, with costs around $40 million. Production will occur at Fincantieri’s shipyard, with sea trials expected in early 2027.
Lockheed Martin nabs $105M ground system contract to support next-gen GPS
Lockheed Martin secured a $105M contract for modernizing the ground control system for GPS IIIF satellites, enhancing operations for both current and future vehicles. This contract, awarded on April 8, continues a decade-long effort under the Space Force’s Architecture Evolution Plan, addressing the shortcomings of the delayed OCX system and supporting upcoming launches.
I Am Artemis: Rebekah Tolatovicz
Rebekah Tolatovicz, a mechanical technician lead for Lockheed Martin, plays a crucial role in building and testing the Orion spacecraft at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Her work supports the Artemis program, including the recent Artemis II mission. Tolatovicz emphasizes the importance of every task, mentoring newcomers and contributing to NASA's historic lunar exploration efforts.
US Space Force Awards $68.6M Modification to Lockheed Martin for Next-Gen OPIR
U.S. Space Force awarded Lockheed Martin a $68.5M contract modification for the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) system. This funding will enhance capabilities for missile warning and tracking. The modification supports ongoing development efforts, ensuring the system meets evolving defense requirements. The contract reflects the commitment to advanced surveillance technologies in the face of emerging threats.
Pentagon, Lockheed Martin agree to $4.7 billion PAC-3 interceptor deal
Lockheed Martin secured a $4.7 billion contract with the Pentagon to accelerate production of the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptor. This agreement aims to increase annual production from 600 to 2,000 units over seven years, enhancing capabilities against various threats. The deal follows a framework agreement established in January, reflecting growing military demands for advanced interceptors.
Firefly Aerospace Supports U.S. Space Force VICTUS DIEM Exercise
Firefly Aerospace supported Lockheed Martin in two responsive space exercises for the U.S. Space Force under the VICTUS DIEM mission. The initial exercise involved a rapid payload processing demonstration, showcasing capabilities for timely spacecraft readiness and deployment. This collaboration emphasizes the strategic importance of responsive space operations in contemporary defense scenarios, enhancing national security objectives.
Castelion is raising a $350M Series B to scale hypersonic missile business
Castelion is raising a $350 million Series B led by Lightspeed Venture Partners and Altimeter Capital to scale its hypersonic missile business. This follows a $100 million Series A round. The company aims to deliver low-cost hypersonic missiles, competing against established defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, with a prototype expected in early 2026.
Lockheed Martin to buy satellite maker Terran Orbital in $450M deal
Lockheed Martin is acquiring Terran Orbital in a $450 million take-private deal, expected to finalize by year-end. Lockheed will pay $0.25 per share and eliminate Terran's debt. This acquisition marks the first from Lockheed Martin Ventures since its inception in 2007, as Terran faces dwindling cash reserves and a significant backlog reduction from Rivada Space Networks.