H.R. 4344: Resilient Low Earth Orbit Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Act

The **Resilient Low Earth Orbit Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Act** aims to develop a new satellite-based positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) system that is more resilient than current Global Positioning System (GPS) services. The bill mandates the Secretary of the Air Force to execute a capability demonstration project known as the **Commercial Low Earth Orbit Resilient PNT Capability Demonstration**.

Key Components of the Bill

• Pathfinder Program: The Secretary of the Air Force will initiate a project to demonstrate the new resilient PNT capabilities, contingent upon available funding.
• Contracting with Service Providers: The Secretary must compile a list of eligible commercial service providers that can handle this capability demonstration. At least one contract will be awarded to such a provider within a reasonable timeframe after the bill's passage.
• Technical Requirements: The satellite system demonstrated must:
  • Function effectively without GPS input.
  • Be compatible with existing civilian GPS user equipment, requiring no hardware changes.
  • Show enhanced resistance to jamming and spoofing threats.
  • Achieve precise timing accuracy of under 10 nanoseconds and position accuracy of under 30 centimeters.
  • Quickly restore service even if parts of the satellite system are compromised.
• Evaluation of Service Providers: The Secretary will assess potential service providers based on their commercial viability, technological readiness, and other operational factors.
• Follow-Up Contracts: Following a successful demonstration, there will be opportunities for additional contracts to facilitate the operational deployment of the system.
• Reporting Requirements: The Secretary must provide a comprehensive briefing and report within two years detailing the project outcomes, evaluations of the service providers, and plans for full-scale deployment.

Definitions

Several terms are defined in the bill to ensure clarity on the project. The **capability demonstration project** refers to the main satellite project, while **covered service provider** describes entities that are based in the U.S. and provide low Earth orbit PNT services.

Financial Considerations

The bill is subject to the availability of funding, indicating that the project’s initiation will depend on appropriations made by Congress.

Operational Impact

This initiative identifies a crucial step towards developing a more robust system for PNT services which could mitigate reliance solely on current GPS technology, potentially improving national security and operational capabilities across various sectors.

Relevant Companies

• LEO - This ticker represents companies involved in low Earth orbit satellite services that might benefit from contracts awarded under this bill.
• ISRO - The Indian Space Research Organisation, which is involved in satellite technology and services, may also see implications if technology partnerships are considered.