Lockheed Martin delivers MUOS waveform for secure communications

SUNNYVALE, Calif., 9 Jan. 2013. Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has delivered the software waveform for the U.S. Navy’s Mobile User Objective System (MUOS). The new waveform will enable military satellite communications terminal providers to deploy equipment that makes use of enhanced MUOS capabilities. MUOS is a narrowband tactical satellite communications system that will provide secure communications capabilities with features such as simultaneous voice, video, and data, for mobile and remote users. Satellites for MUOS are equipped with a wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA) payload that provides a 16-fold increase in transmission throughput over the current ultra high frequency (UHF) satellite system. The advances come from a previously commercial waveform that has now been tailored to be used with the new WCDMA payload. The U.S. government has made the waveform available for military satellite communications terminal providers through the joint tactical networking center (JTNC) information repository, and contractors can now integrate the waveform into their MUOS-compatible terminals to provide WCDMA capabilities for users.

Each MUOS satellite also includes a legacy UHF payload that is fully compatible with the current UHF Follow-on system and legacy terminals. The dual-payload design will assist in the transition as UHF is phased out.

The first MUOS satellite and associated ground system are currently providing initial on-orbit capability. The second MUOS satellite is expected to be launched in July 2013. Once it has completed on-orbit testing and checked-out with the MUOS ground system and a HMS Manpack terminal certified with the MUOS waveform, the system will begin to provide full WCDMA capability to users.

Lockheed Martin is under contract to deliver five MUOS satellites and the associated ground system to the U.S. Navy. Lockheed Martin Space Systems in Sunnyvale, Calif., is the MUOS prime contractor and system integrator. The Navy's Program Executive Office for Space Systems, Chantilly, Va., and its Communications Satellite Program Office, San Diego, Calif., are responsible for the MUOS program.