Chip Shortages Delay Fielding of Next-Generation Military GPS Systems
What happened
A report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office stated that the full deployment of next-generation, anti-jam Global Positioning System receivers across Army aviation and ground vehicle fleets will not be complete until 2049 or later. The primary cause is a limited supply of specialized microchip sets, known as ASICs, needed to process M-code signals. Production bottlenecks are restricting the delivery of these hardware components to defense contractors and military integration facilities.
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Why it matters
The shortage of specialized microchips is restricting the delivery of core hardware components used in military navigation systems. This limits the modernization and deployment of critical military platforms, impacting the defense supply chain.
From satnews.com
Who's involved
- Global Positioning SystemAmerican satellite-based radio navigation service
- United States Department of DefenseConceived and developed the Global Positioning System
- ArmyIs undergoing modernization of its positioning, navigation, and timing initiatives
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- General Dynamics Mission SystemsSpeculative
Might face supply chain bottlenecks restricting the delivery and integration of core technology systems.
- Lockheed MartinSpeculative
Could experience production delays for modernized GPS hardware due to ASIC supply constraints.
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The entities involved
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Global Positioning System
American satellite-based radio navigation service
Nothing else this week.
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Army
senior officer in the Australian Army