The U.S. Space Force recently awarded Raytheon a $379.7 million contract extension to continue development of the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX), a critical software upgrade for the Global Positioning System (GPS) infrastructure. The project, now more than eight years behind schedule, has seen its total cost reach approximately $4.6 billion.
Originally slated for 2018 delivery, OCX's delays stem from the software's complexity. This has highlighted the Pentagon's struggles with complex software development, leading to calls for reform in defense acquisition policy. Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, the Space Force’s acting assistant secretary for space acquisition, acknowledged the challenges, stating on May 14, “The OCX program remains challenging, highlighting the difficulties of developing complex C2 (command and control) systems concurrently with large-scale software — a practice we aim to avoid in the future.”
Despite setbacks, progress is being made. The system has achieved 130 successful operational contacts with legacy GPS satellites and has broadcast its first OCX-generated signal. Delivery to the Space Operations Command is expected this fall, with a phased transition to OCX beginning in early fiscal 2026. Full operational acceptance is anticipated by spring 2026.
The Space Force aims to learn from the OCX experience. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's March 2025 memo directed a shift from traditional procurement models towards agile, software-first approaches. Purdy explained this change, saying, “We shifted the space portfolio away from massive, monolithic, winner-take-all ground software programs like OCX…we’ve broken out our ground software acquisition into multiple components, using open architecture frameworks and tapping into Silicon Valley style software production contractors.”
The OCX program, while facing hurdles, underscores the importance of the GPS constellation for both military and civilian use. The system's modernization through OCX is crucial for maintaining its functionality and resilience in an increasingly complex global environment.