The US Army has officially approved the full-rate production of the Mounted Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing System (MAPS) Gen II, developed by Collins Aerospace. This system is a key component of the military’s ongoing modernization efforts, designed to enhance vehicle operations in environments where GPS signals may be compromised.
With this significant approval, the Mounted PNT product office and Collins Aerospace can now proceed with the development of MAPS Gen II, setting the stage for its eventual initial operating capability. This marks an important milestone as the Army continues to adapt to the challenges posed by evolving battlefield conditions.
The roots of the MAPS Gen II system can be traced back to 2019, when the US Army introduced the first iteration, MAPS Gen I. The Gen II version incorporates advanced technology to improve upon its predecessor. Lt. Col. Damian Dixon, the Mounted PNT product manager, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts from various teams and commands that have contributed to this project’s realization.
The Army placed an order for MAPS Gen II from Collins Aerospace in September 2022, under a substantial five-year contract valued at $583 million. This investment underscores the Army’s commitment to ensuring its capabilities in challenging environments.
The MAPS Gen II features a modular open systems architecture that enhances its versatility and effectiveness. One of its standout features is the NavHub-100 navigation system, complemented by a Multi-Sensor Antenna System. Together, these systems integrate sensor fusion algorithms and utilize non-radio frequency sensors to prevent GPS spoofing and jamming, which are critical capabilities in modern warfare.
Moreover, the Gen II system employs military-grade GPS, known as M-Code, ensuring that warfighters can maintain operational precision even when faced with compromised GPS signals. This is especially vital in various operational scenarios, including mountainous regions, urban environments with tall buildings, or areas susceptible to electronic warfare attacks, where traditional navigation systems may fail.
As the US Army moves forward with the MAPS Gen II, the military aims to enhance its operational readiness and effectiveness in contested environments, ensuring that its personnel can continue their missions with confidence and precision.
