Since the 1980s, multiple U.S. presidents have issued consistent policies encouraging the worldwide use of GPS for peaceful purposes. Congress has enacted elements of these policies as permanent law.
The stability and transparency of U.S. policy, combined with a long track record of dependable GPS service, have laid a solid foundation for investment and innovation in GPS technology. As a result, the commercial use of GPS technology has flourished, transforming the way we live and work today.
GPS Policy Highlights
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Free Access for Civilian UseThe U.S. government provides civilian access to GPS on a continuous, worldwide basis, free of direct user fees. It also provides open, free access to the information needed to develop GPS user equipment.
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Management of GPS as a National AssetThe GPS program receives national-level attention and guidance through a joint civil/military body established by presidential directive.
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Joint Program FundingThe bulk of the GPS program is budgeted through the Department of Defense, but the Department of Transportation also contributes funding to support civilian GPS requirements.
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GPS ModernizationTo meet growing demands and stay competitive internationally, the U.S. government is committed to a long-term modernization program that will improve GPS performance, including more robust resistance to interference.
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International CooperationThe United States engages with other global navigation satellite system providers to ensure compatibility, encourage interoperability with likeminded nations, promote transparency in civil service provision, and enable market access for U.S. industry.
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Denying Hostile UseIt is U.S. policy to prevent hostile use of GPS through localized denial (i.e. military jamming) that does not unduly disrupt civil and commercial GPS access outside the battlefield. The United States no longer uses Selective Availability to degrade civil GPS accuracy.
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Spectrum ProtectionThe U.S. government works to minimize human sources of GPS interference through spectrum regulations, interference detection and mitigation efforts, and law enforcement.
