Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has surpassed another milestone on its Modernized User Equipment program by achieving live satellite M-code tracking with its MUE receiver. This accomplishment places Raytheon one step closer to the completion of its modernized receiver and accelerates the ability of the Department of Defense to synchronize user equipment, satellite, and control system interoperability for the GPS constellation. A Raytheon-led team developed modernized versions of the avionics and the ground-based module that receives signals from the Global Positioning System. Delivery of the pre-production receiver to the government is expected in November 2009.

"Our accomplishments on this program have enabled the continued success of GPS modernization," said Michael Crisp, director of Raytheon GPS and navigation systems. "This modern technology is critical to the delivery of advanced GPS capabilities to the joint warfighter."

The new technology on the MUE program is replacing legacy receiver systems, bringing modernized M-code GPS navigation capabilities, enhanced accuracy, and security solutions to the joint warfighter. The U.S. Air Force awarded Raytheon a card-development contract for an MUE receiver in June 2006.