Lockheed Martin has successfully completed and delivered the software waveform for the US Navy’s Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite programme.
The next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system, MUOS satellite has been designed to provide enhanced communications for combatants on the move while replacing existing ultra-high-frequency follow-on (UFO) system.
The new waveform will allow military satellite communications terminal providers to deploy equipment that makes full use of advanced MUOS capabilities.
MUOS satellites are integrated with Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) payload to offer a 16-fold increase in transmission throughput over the existing ultra high-frequency (UHF) satellite system.
Compatible with the current UHF follow-on system and legacy terminals, the MUOS satellite will provide remote and mobile users with improved communication capabilities such as simultaneous voice, video and data.
Lockheed Martin’s Narrowband Communications mission area vice president Iris Bombelyn said: "As our government and industry partners begin deploying new communications terminals, remote and mobile tactical users will be able to quickly and securely share video, data and voice communications critical to their safety and mission success."
Launched in February 2012, the first MUOS satellite is currently operational with the US Navy following successful completion of in-orbit testing in July 2012, while the second MUOS satellite is scheduled to launch in July this year.
Full operational capability of the MUOS constellation is scheduled to be achieved in 2015 and will extend narrowband availability beyond 2025.
Lockheed is the prime contractor and system integrator, while the US Navy’s Program Executive Office for Space Systems and its Communications Satellite Program Office are responsible for the MUOS programme.
Image: Lockheed-built MUOS satellite waveform. Photo: courtesy of Lockheed Martin.
