On June 30, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the third next-generation GPS III satellites into orbit, marking another step forward for America’s satellite-based navigation system.

GPS III SV03 will augment the current GPS constellation of 31 operational spacecraft. This latest generation of GPS satellite boasts a 15-year design life, which is 25% percent longer than the last generation of GPS IIF satellites on-orbit.

It is reported that GPS III represents a significant upgrade of the existing Global Positioning System satellite constellation. By 2023, 10 GPS III satellites, built by Lockheed Martin, should be providing navigation and positioning readings that are three times as precise as the current system, with eight times the capability to resist jamming.