Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT)

The Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT) program is an essential initiative by the Army to ensure reliable access to positioning, navigation, and timing information in environments where Global Positioning Systems (GPS) may be compromised. This program focuses on developing robust systems that allow Army forces to maintain operational capabilities such as maneuvering, communication, and targeting even when GPS signals are jammed or spoofed. The APNT initiative addresses two primary capability gaps: Access, which ensures the retrieval of accurate PNT information in contested environments, and Integrity, which guarantees the trustworthiness of this information.

The Area Protection and Alternative Navigation (ALTNAV) Technology Development project is a key component of the APNT program. It aims to provide an alternative source of positioning and timing information through the ALTNAV Enterprise, which includes space segments, ground control segments, and user equipment. This project supports the development of complementary PNT technologies that enable Army users to access assured position and time data in GPS-denied environments. The ALTNAV Enterprise is designed to be a contingency capability within the PNT PACE (Primary, Alternative, Contingency, Emergency) Plan.

The Dismounted Assured PNT System (DAPS) project focuses on delivering resilient M-Code GPS-capable ground user equipment for soldiers operating in environments where GPS may be limited or denied. DAPS aims to provide assured PNT information using various data sources to address multiple threats. The project involves developing hardware and software solutions that integrate anti-jam antenna capabilities for future configurations across different platforms such as vehicular, maritime, and aviation.

The Mounted Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing System (MAPS) project provides similar capabilities for mounted platforms like Armored Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs). MAPS delivers systems that ensure access to assured PNT information under conditions where space-based GPS may be compromised. The program leverages military code GPS, alternative navigation signals, sensor fusion, and anti-jam technologies to maintain operational effectiveness. MAPS has transitioned from a Quick Reaction Capability to a more structured acquisition strategy aimed at providing distributed assured PNT capabilities across various combat platforms.