GPS III Satellite Successfully Launched Into Orbit

The U.S. Space Force launched a new GPS III satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 3:07pm

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The U.S. Space Force successfully launched a GPS III satellite into orbit on January 27, 2026, adding to its constellation of more accurate and jam-resistant position, navigation and timing spacecraft. The Lockheed Martin-built GPS III-9 Space Vehicle 09 features increased positional accuracy, anti-jamming and secure encryption capabilities to support military operations.

Why it matters

The launch of this new GPS III satellite is an important milestone for the U.S. Space Force as it continues to modernize and strengthen its GPS capabilities. The enhanced features of the GPS III satellites, including improved accuracy and anti-jamming, are crucial for supporting military operations and national security.

The details

The GPS III-9 Space Vehicle 09 was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The launch was managed by the Space Force's Space Systems Command System Delta 80, while the Space Force's Combat Forces Command Mission Delta 31 oversaw the space vehicle processing. Lockheed Martin is currently controlling the satellite from its Denver, Colorado-based Launch & Checkout Operations Center until the Space Force officially accepts the satellite into its operational network.

  • The GPS III-9 Space Vehicle 09 was launched at 11:53 p.m. EST on January 27, 2026.

The players

U.S. Space Force

The U.S. Space Force is the space service branch of the United States Armed Forces, one of the eight uniformed services of the United States.

Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is an American aerospace, arms, defense, information security, and technology corporation that works extensively with the U.S. Department of Defense and other U.S. government agencies.

SpaceX

SpaceX is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company that was founded by Elon Musk.

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The takeaway

The successful launch of the GPS III-9 satellite is a significant step forward in the U.S. Space Force's efforts to modernize and strengthen its GPS capabilities, which are critical for supporting military operations and national security.