BAE Systems demonstrates next-generation M-Code Global Navigation Satellite System user equipment technology

Increment 2 MSI program developed at Cedar Rapids facility

BAE Systems M-Code Concept
BAE Systems has demonstrated a major advancement in core signal processing capability. CREDIT BAE SYSTEMS

BAE Systems has successfully demonstrated M-Code signal tracking with an Increment 2 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver powered by the companyโ€™s Next-Generation Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).

This technological breakthrough is part of the Military GPS User Equipment (MGUE) Increment (Inc) 2 Miniature Serial Interface (MSI) program, the result of a $247 million contract awarded to BAE Systems in 2020 from the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command.

โ€œThis development milestone validates that we have the core of our next-generation GNSS user equipment technology in place,โ€ Luke Bishop, director of Navigation and Sensor Systems at BAE Systems said in a release. โ€œThis capability is foundational to powering future generations of assured Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) products for the U.S. and its allies.โ€

Development of the Increment 2 MSI program is conducted at the companyโ€™s facility in Cedar Rapids.

According to the release, Increment 2 is a significant step forward in core signal processing capability and supports advanced signal processing, including support for additional satellite networks.

The program will develop and qualify a small-form factor receiver for use in applications requiring low size, weight, and power, allowing for easier integration into a wider range of platforms, such as battery-powered handheld receivers.

The demonstration builds on the flexibility offered by BAE Systemsโ€™ current Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) and M-Code Increment 1 products, providing more capability to outpace the threat, including field reprogramming and a flexible software configuration to meet mission needs.

BAE Systemsโ€™ extensive portfolio of M-Code GPS and anti-jam products provides flexible, efficient, and reliable navigation and guidance solutions for airborne systems, precision munitions, handheld receivers and embedded applications.

Details on the companyโ€™s full line of military GPS, GNSS, and AJ products can be found at baesystems.com/gps.