Next-gen GPS satellite upgrade: 3 feet accuracy

December 19, 2011

Block III GPS satellite (credit: Lockheed Martin)

Block III GPS satellites, which will begin replacing older orbiting GPS satellites in 2014 (part of a $5.5 billion upgrade), will improve the accuracy of military and civilian GPS worldwide to within three feet, compared with 10 feet now, AP reports.

Benefits: more accurate directions while driving, more reliable in covered areas (trees, skyscrapers, shopping malls), compatible with European and Russian systems, and more jamming-resistant.