Global Positioning Systems

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Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver (PLGR)

PURPOSE: To provide information on the history of PLGR procurement and the current availability of PLGRs and accessories, pricing and ordering process.

EFFECTIVE DATE: November 15, 1999

BACKGROUND ON FEDERAL USE OF GPS:

The NAVSTAR Global Positioning System (GPS) is a spaced-based radionavigation system developed and operated by the Department of Defense (DOD). NAVSTAR GPS provides two levels of service;

1. The Standard Positioning Service (SPS) is a positioning and timing service, which is available to all GPS users on a continuous, worldwide basis with no direct charge. SPS provides the capability to obtain horizontal positioning accuracy within 100 meters (95% probability) and vertical positioning accuracy within 140 meters (95% probability).

2. The Precise Positioning Service (PPS) is a highly accurate military positioning, velocity, and timing service which is provided on a continuous, worldwide basis to users authorized by DOD by use of Cryptography. PPS is made available to U.S. Federal and Allied Government (civil and military) users through special agreements with the DOD.

Federal Civilian Agencies (FCA) developed an interest in the GPS Precise Positioning Service (PPS) because of the increased accuracy, precision, and autonomous positioning and navigation capability available from PPS. PPS has enabled Federal Civilian Agencies to accomplish countless task and to support an infinite variety of applications in the most cost effective and uniform manner.

Access and use of PPS has been granted to authorized U.S. Federal Agencies under individual Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) with the DOD. Each authorization to access and use the PPS was reviewed and granted by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence.

In accordance with the MOA with DOD, each Federal Agency:

1. Is responsible for becoming cognizant of and complying with DOD GPS PPS-related security requirements and provisions,

2. Will fund for and obtain PPS capable user equipment in sufficient quantities to support authorized users.

3. Limit PPS applications to authorized users as identified in the MOA and of the annexes.

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