[Satellite TODAY 12-14-11]A Lockheed Martin team developing the U.S. Air Force’s next generation Global Positioning System (GPS-3) has delivered the program’s pathfinder spacecraft to the company’s Denver-area facility, Lockheed announced Dec. 13.

   The pathfinder, known as the GPS 3 Non-Flight Satellite Testbed (GNST), will now undergo final assembly, integration and test activities in a new facility designed to maximize efficiencies and reduce costs of satellite production.

   The GPS 3 program aims to replace aging GPS satellites while improving capability to meet the evolving needs of military, commercial and civilian users worldwide. GPS 3 satellites were designed to deliver better accuracy and improved anti-jamming power.

   “The on schedule delivery of the GPS 3 pathfinder is a key indicator that this program is on firm footing and poised to deliver on its commitments. In this challenging budget environment, we are committed to delivering the critical GPS 3 capabilities to users affordably and on schedule,” Lt. Col. Don Frew, the U.S. Air Force’s GPS 3 program manager said in a statement.