U.S. Air Force exercises $50.7 million contract option with Rockwell Collins for next-generation GPS technology

The U.S. Air Force has exercised a $50.7 million contract option with Rockwell Collins to complete the next phase of the Modernized User Equipment (MUE) program. Work will consist of receiver card development for ground and airborne applications, to include test and security certification for the next-generation Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.

The initial contract of $27.9 million was awarded in 2006 to Rockwell Collins to develop and demonstrate user segment receiver cards, establishing the first proof of design for the future GPS architecture. That contract, which was executed through October 2007, supported preliminary design of the modernized receiver cards.

The U.S. Air Force is in the process of modernizing all three components of the GPS system: the satellite; control; and user equipment segments. The MUE Receiver Card Development program, awarded by the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC), represents the military user equipment portion of the next-generation GPS system that adds a new military signal and security architecture. The new technology offers enhanced integrity, exclusivity and improved anti-jam capabilities designed to more effectively support the warfighter and future military GPS requirements.

Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL) is a pioneer in the development and deployment of innovative communication and aviation electronic solutions for both commercial and government applications. Our expertise in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, mission communications, information management and simulation and training is delivered by 20,000 employees, and a global service and support network that crosses 27 countries. To find out more, please visit www.rockwellcollins.com.