ULA isn't making the Space Force's GPS interference problem any easier

February 27, 2026

Here's something that might surprise you — the US Space Force's GPS system is facing fresh hurdles, and ULA isn't exactly helping. GPS, which billions rely on daily, is crucial for everything from navigation apps to military operations. According to Stephen Clark writing in TechCrunch, the Space Force regularly launches new satellites to keep the system running smoothly, since older ones wear out. Right now, there are 31 GPS satellites up there, orbiting 20,000 kilometers above Earth, ensuring global coverage. But here’s where it gets tricky — United Launch Alliance (ULA), the main contractor for launching these satellites, is making interference issues worse. Clark reports that ULA’s launches are complicating efforts to reduce signal disruptions, especially in an era where even small glitches can have big consequences. So what does this mean for you? Well, it’s a reminder that even the most reliable tech we depend on daily isn’t foolproof — there’s a delicate dance behind the scenes, and sometimes, the biggest players aren’t making it easier. Keep an eye on this space — things are evolving fast.

DENVER—The Global Positioning System is one of the few space programs that touches nearly every human life, and the stewards of the satellite navigation network are eager to populate the fleet with the latest and greatest spacecraft.

The US Space Force owns and operates the GPS constellation, providing civilian and military-grade positioning, navigation, and timing signals to cell phones, airliners, naval ships, precision munitions, and a whole lot more.

One reason for routinely launching GPS satellites is simply "constellation replenishment," said Col. Andrew Menschner, deputy commander of the Space Force's Space Systems Command. Old satellites degrade and die, and new ones need to go up and replace them. At least 24 GPS satellites are needed for global coverage, and having additional satellites in the fleet can improve navigation precision. Today, there are 31 GPS satellites in operational service, flying more than 12,000 miles (20,000 kilometers) above the Earth.

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