What 2024 has in store for Space Force acquisition
Summary
Next year, Calvelli expects the Space Force to finally deliver on a few “problem children” programs, including a space command-and-control system, called ATLAS for Advanced Tracking and Launch Analysis System; and new ground stations to control the Pentagon’s constellation of GPS satellites, called GPS Next Generation Operational Control Segment, or OCX. Its a very large complex software system thats had its challenges.” ATLAS is set to replace the Pentagons 45-year-old Space Defense Operations Center, or SPADOC. Delivery is planned for June, but developmental testing, crew training, and other activities will keep it out of operations until February 2025, the department official said. The final two acquisition milestones for the program—developing the aviation and maritime cards—are on track for operational testing next year on the Air Force’s B-2 bomber in July and the Navy’s DDG-class destroyer in October, the official said. Still, officials have maintained they aren’t concerned about the Pentagon’s dependence on Elon Musk’s SpaceX to launch crucial satellites into space.