Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE: LMT) completed the core mate phase for GPS IIIF Space Vehicle 11, marking a production milestone for the satellite program. The core mate phase represents the assembly of the satellite's main structural components.

GPS IIIF SV11 becomes the third satellite in the series to reach this stage, following SV13 and SV14 which completed core mate in the previous year. SV11 is scheduled to be the first GPS IIIF satellite to launch.

The GPS IIIF satellites feature Regional Military Protection technology, which the company states improves anti-jamming capability by more than 60 times compared to previous generations. The satellites include M-Code encryption for military positioning and navigation signals.

"Core mate of SV11 showcases the production momentum behind the next-generation GPS IIIF satellites as we continue to invest in advanced manufacturing," said Christina Mancinelli, vice president of Global Communications & Navigation at Lockheed Martin.

Starting with SV13, GPS IIIF satellites will incorporate the LM2100 Combat Bus platform, which adds cyber-hardening features and enhanced power, propulsion and electronics systems. The satellites also carry search and rescue payloads for emergency response operations.

Manufacturing takes place at Lockheed Martin's Denver facility, where the company uses augmented reality and digital twin technologies in production. Lockheed Martin holds contracts through GPS IIIF SV22 and has completed launches for the GPS III satellite series.

The information is based on a company press release.