The British government has announced plans to explore new options for a UK satellite navigation and timing capability programme.
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The Space-Based Positioning Navigation and Timing Program (SBPP) will find alternate ways to deliver the services that underpin transport services, energy networks, mobile communications and national security systems.
It plans to build on the UK's existing Global Navigation Satellite System (UK GNSS) programme, which is due to conclude at the end of September which has developed as a British counterpart to American GPS or the EU's Galileo.
The program will consider newer and more innovative ways of delivering a global satnav and secure satellite services to meet both the public and private sector's needs.
The government claims this system will allow a greater degree of autonomy and independence for the nation, who are currently dependent on foreign technologies, such as the US's GPS. They added it will also create unique opportunities for British businesses to be less reliant on international systems.
Graham Turnock, CEO of the UK Space Agency said: “Our work to date has developed cutting-edge UK expertise in satellite navigation spacecraft, antenna design and control systems while supporting high-skilled jobs. Now is the time to drive this work further to look into wider, more innovative ways of delivering this important national capability – to help protect our critical infrastructure and put the UK at the forefront of the development of new space technologies.”
The announcement was also welcomed by Paul Everitt, CEO of industry trade body ADS. “The UK’s space industry has the capacity, experience and enterprise to support the government’s ambition for national satellite navigation and timing capability. The industry is ready to play its part in exploring innovative ways of delivering this important capability for our national security and resilience. Investment in the UK’s space industry will encourage innovation, boost exports and support the contribution the space industry can make to jobs and prosperity.”
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