Many of today’s modern conveniences rely on GPS, such as cell phones, ATMs, and air travel.  Likewise, GPS has become a vital tool for our critical defense sector. Our military uses GPS as the primary navigation system for aircraft, vehicles, vessels, and personnel. GPS systems are integral for the targeting of modern weapons, command and control communications, the guidance of unmanned systems, and supply delivery. The article will examine the history, influence, and prospects of GPS systems.


GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite-based radio navigation system that provides users with position, navigation, and timing (PNT) information. The system has three segments: the space segment, the control segment, and the user segment. The space segment relays satellite positioning, while the control segment uploads satellite navigational data and maintains satellite collection health. The user segment consists of the equipment that receives GPS signals from satellites and calculates the user’s location, velocity, and time based on that information.

Early Navigation Without GPS

Before the development of GPS systems, celestial navigation was primarily used, which involved measuring the sun and stars to determine latitude. Maps, compasses, and chronometers (used to determine longitude) were also used. In the 20th century, as airplanes emerged, new navigation systems and calculations for travel were needed. 

early celestial navigation before gps

The Introduction of GPS

GPS was first introduced in the 1960s by the Navy to monitor submarines carrying military missiles. Technology advancements such as solid-state microprocessors, computers, and bandwidth utilization techniques enabled GPS’s further development throughout the late 1990s. 


In 1978, the DoD wanted to expand these efforts, inspired by the Navy’s earlier concept, and launched a network of 24 satellites for a more advanced system. In 1983, President Reagan permitted its use in commercial aviation for safer navigation. Fully operational for military use by 1993, GPS became available worldwide for civilian and commercial use under President Clinton in 2000.


With the advent of GPS, it became clear that the technology would need modernization to keep up with rapidly expanding civilian and military applications. GPS III has been in development for decades, culminating in the development of modernized IIF satellites, the last of which was launched in 2017. In 2018, the first GPS III satellites were launched, which provided three times the accuracy of the position. Compared with other satellites in the constellation, this generation also had 8X the anti-jamming abilities. 

The Role of GPS in Modern Military Operations

GPS can now be used by the public for tracking and data. In professional sectors, it is used for flight trafficking, automotive navigation, weather science applications, and computer and mobile communication applications. GPS is now the core technology system for U.S. Military aircraft, vessels, vehicles, and personnel, and provides an indispensable tool, providing precise time and location. 

GPS is integral to aircraft navigation systems, as it provides positional data and allows for precise targeting. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) also rely on GPS for autonomous navigation. Land vehicles can navigate complex terrain with GPS, and soldiers can use wearable or portable GPS devices to maintain situational awareness, navigate, and improve safety. It is also crucial for naval vessels to use GPS to plan their routes and navigate safely. 

GPS is an integral aspect to defense and aerospace

Looking Ahead: Innovations in GPS Technology

The next generation of satellites, which are currently being developed, will benefit all defense and aerospace applications, improving military operations, supporting energy service responders, and enhancing global security. (GPS IIIF) is a plan to modernize and expand the technology, with a completion date of 2026.


GPS IIIF will provide regional military protection (RMP) with a boosted M-code signal, M-code power, resiliency in disadvantaged areas, and a search and rescue (SAR) payload. The m-code is a military signal that improves security and has anti-jamming properties. Regional Military Protection (RMP) will be added to GPS IIIF satellites to provide 60X greater anti-jamming capabilities. The next generation of satellites will also enable Search and Retreat satellites to intercept distress calls and report them to the ground. 


With these qualities, this technology will be a valuable asset for the U.S. and its allies, ensuring uninterrupted GPS access in hostile environments and supporting first responders in times of emergency. In addition, once the program is fully implemented, all satellites will be equipped with NDS (Nuclear Detonation Detection System) technology, allowing them to pinpoint nuclear activity more accurately.

GPS: A Strategic Asset for Tomorrow’s Warfare

As a vital tool for navigation, targeting, and situational awareness, the Global Positioning System has transformed military operations. From its beginning in the 1960s, GPS is now a cornerstone of modern warfare and has continuously evolved to meet the demands of both civilian and military applications. The anticipated deployment of GPS IIIF satellites will enhance operational capabilities, ensure security in contested environments, and support emergency responders. 

Our military forces must remain effective, agile, and prepared for the challenges of modern warfare through the continued advancement of GPS technology. Using cutting-edge innovations in our products, such as NVIS-compatible displays and optics, Cevians contributes to the operational excellence of military forces. We are shaping a future in which precision and reliability in defense operations are paramount.