After 16 years and $8B the military's new GPS software still doesn't work
The military's new GPS software, developed over 16 years at a cost of $8 billion, remains nonoperational despite its official handover to the Space Force. The OCX system, intended to control the military's GPS satellites, has encountered numerous technical challenges and unresolved issues. As a result, the Pentagon is considering abandoning the program after years of delays and cost overruns.
- ▪The GPS Next-Generation Operational Control System, or OCX, was handed over to the Space Force last year but remains nonoperational.
- ▪The program was initially expected to cost $3.7 billion and be completed by 2016, but costs have ballooned to $8 billion.
- ▪Extensive testing has revealed significant issues across all subsystems, leading to concerns about future GPS satellite capabilities.
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Problem child After 16 years and $8 billion, the military’s new GPS software still doesn’t work “It’s a very stressing program. We are still considering how to ensure we move forward.” Stephen Clark – Mar 30, 2026 1:11 pm | 157 US Space Force Guardians assigned to Space Delta 5 monitor computer workstations at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Credit: US Space Force/David Dozoretz US Space Force Guardians assigned to Space Delta 5 monitor computer workstations at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
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