The US Air Force awarded Lockheed Martin one of two industry contracts valued at approximately $20 M each to enter the next development phase of an advanced Global Positioning System, to be known as GPS III. The present awards are for the Phase A element of the program during which two teams will conduct studies culminating in a system requirement review in the fourth quarter of 2004. Phase B, the GPS III development program, is expected to be awarded by the US Air Force Navstar Joint Program Office in the fourth quarter of 2005. Today’s GPS allows any properly equipped user to determine precise time and velocity and worldwide latitude, longitude and altitude to within a few meters. Although originally designed as a guidance and navigational tool for the military, GPS has proven beneficial in the commercial and civil markets for transportation, surveying and rescue operations. GPS III will address the challenging military transformational and civil needs across the globe, including advanced anti-jam capabilities, improved system security, and accuracy and reliability. The new satellite-based system will enhance space-based navigation and performance, and set a new world standard for positioning and timing services.