Under the Modernized User Equipment program, the circuit card technology will connect military users with new GPS navigation signals compatible with enhanced NAVSTAR GPS satellites. The receivers, which will employ the new M-code military signal, also will work effectively with legacy signal systems.

"The MUE program is raising the capability of military GPS equipment while lowering the cost for the warfighter," said Phil Kelton, MUE program manager for Raytheon's GPS and navigation systems business. "Raytheon's approach to MUE takes advantage of breakthroughs in microelectronics technology, coupled with advanced security solutions to enable higher performance and greater integrity at less cost than today's systems."

Kelton sees potential to achieve "true force-enhancing status" for military GPS capability though the proliferation of low-cost GPS modernized user equipment. Raytheon is teamed on the program with General Dynamics and Trimble Navigation Systems.

"The award of this second phase of the systems design and development contract allows us to complete the custom building-blocks being developed for the next-generation M-code GPS receivers," said Michael Crisp, director of Raytheon GPS and navigation systems. "This technology development will strengthen and preserve the secure GPS navigation capability in the equipment used by the U.S. and its allies in all missions."

In addition, Crisp said, two form factor receiver cards are being developed that will allow modular upgrades of Raytheon's avionics, weapons and integrated sensor systems ahead of the full deployment of the GPS III satellite constellation.

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