The programme, led by RTX, was intended to modernise command and control of the GPS satellite constellation. It was designed to replace both the existing Architecture Evolution Plan system and the Launch, Anomaly and Disposal Operations system.
Officials said the system failed to deliver required capabilities within an acceptable timeline and risk level. A U.S. Space Force statement said: “The program was unable to deliver needed capabilities on an operationally relevant timeline at an acceptable level of risk to meet the GPS constellation modernization needs.”
The OCX programme had been under development for approximately 15 years and experienced repeated cost and schedule overruns. As of January 2026, total programme costs had reached approximately $6.27 billion, including contractor and government expenditures.
In July 2025, the Space Force formally accepted the system from Raytheon following extended factory testing. This was followed by integrated testing to assess performance across the wider GPS enterprise, including satellites, ground systems and user equipment.
Stephen Hobbs said: “Regrettably, extensive system issues arose during the integrated testing of OCX with the broader GPS enterprise.” He added: “Despite repeated collaborative approaches by the entire government and contractor team, the challenges of onboarding the system in an operationally relevant timeline proved insurmountable.”
He continued: “We discovered problems across a broad range of capability areas that would put current GPS military and civilian capabilities at risk.” Officials said these issues persisted despite efforts to resolve deficiencies identified during earlier testing phases.
Tom Ainsworth said: “It’s important we refine and update acquisition processes to prioritize rapid, incremental capability delivery versus complex ‘all or nothing’ system deliveries.” He added: “The Department of War has made clear that we need to deliver warfighting capability at a faster rate.”
The Space Force operates a constellation of GPS satellites supporting military and civilian users worldwide. However, the OCX system was required to fully enable advanced capabilities of newer GPS III satellites, including enhanced security and anti-jamming features.
Due to delays in the programme, the Space Force has invested in incremental upgrades to the existing Architecture Evolution Plan system over the past decade. Officials said these improvements have provided confidence in maintaining operational capability and supporting further enhancements.
Hobbs said: “Ultimately, we analyzed the work remaining on OCX and compared this with the current GPS control system capability.” He added: “The analysis revealed additional investment in OCX was no longer the best solution for protecting and advancing GPS capabilities.”
The Space Force said it will now continue to enhance the current control system rather than pursue further development of OCX. The decision reflects a broader shift toward incremental upgrades to ensure timely delivery of operational capabilities.
