GPS III SV09 Satellite

Full Specifications

GPS III SV09 Military Navigation Satellite

GPS III SV09 is part of the U.S. Air Force next generation Global Positioning System constellation. Designed to replace aging legacy satellites, SV09 delivers stronger signals, improved accuracy, and greater resistance to jamming and spoofing. The satellite supports U.S. and allied forces across land, air, sea, space, and cyber operations. For civilian users, it also improves reliability for aviation, maritime navigation, and critical infrastructure timing.

Manufacturer

GPS III SV09 was built by Lockheed Martin under a U.S. Air Force program managed by Space Systems Command. The GPS III series represents a major upgrade over earlier GPS IIR and IIF satellites, with a design focused on resilience in contested space environments. SV09 follows earlier GPS III launches and contributes to a fully modernized constellation.

Speed and Range

As an Earth orbiting satellite, GPS III SV09 travels at roughly 14,000 km per hour in Medium Earth Orbit. Operating at an altitude of about 20,200 km, it provides continuous global coverage rather than a fixed range. Its improved L1, L2, and L5 signals allow higher accuracy and better penetration in urban and battlefield conditions.

Cost and Price

Each GPS III satellite is estimated to cost between USD 500 and 600 million, including spacecraft production and mission integration. Costs reflect hardened electronics, secure communications, and long design life.