Pentagon’s New GPS Satellites Are Running Months Behind Schedule

The Pentagon’s first batch of new and more capable GPS satellites is as much as eight to 11 months behind the desired delivery schedule because contractor Lockheed Martin Corp. is having difficulty manufacturing some complex parts, according to the US Space Force.

The initial 10 new “GPS IIIF” satellites are the first of a potential 22 in an estimated $9.2 billion program for spacecraft with greater accuracy and jam-proof signals for the GPS system, which is used both for sensitive defense programs, such as coordinates for smart bombs, and civilian purposes such as turn-by-turn driving directions.

“Since the program began ...