Navstar - global positioning system - a revolutionary capability

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Navstar - global positioning system - a revolutionary capability

Euler, W.C. / Breedlove, J.W.

The launch of the Sputnik in 1957 opened a new era for improving global navigation for both military and civil users. The TRANSIT while proving the feasibility of satellite navigation could not provide the navigational accuracies needed by all classes of users. However, a GPS user can obtain an accurate navigation fix at any time in any weather condition and in the presence of interference. Furthermore, the GPS concept has been proven by realistic field evaluation. Analyses sponsored by the Department of Defense indicate that much of the initial cost of GPS (approximately Dollar 5 billion) can be offset by discontinuing some present-day navigational systems. On the other hand, force enhancement considerations and other cost benefits could reach Dollar 50 billion. GPS has unlimited military and civil applications. Without an operational GPS, it will be difficult if not impossible to meet present and future navigational requirements.