Boeing will join the Lockheed Martin-General Dynamics team competing for the Mobile User Objective System, or MUOS, a multi-satellite system that will improve ground communications for U.S. forces on the move.
Selection of the final design for the MUOS system is scheduled for 2004, with initial operational capability expected in early 2008 and full capability by 2013. The U.S. Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, located in San Diego, Calif, manages the program.
Satellite communications provide a critical link in the integrated battlespace, the global network of new and legacy platforms and communications systems used by the armed services and intelligence community. MUOS is the next-generation system that will eventually replace the U.S. Navy’s UHF Follow-On satellite fleet.
“Boeing and Lockheed Martin have worked together to support the Navy under the UHF Follow-On program for 14 years. This successful relationship provides a solid foundation to this MUOS team,” said Dave Ryan, vice president and general manager of Boeing Satellite Systems.
“The ability to provide U.S. and coalition forces with real-time information is critical, and the MUOS system will make tremendous strides in improving communication to those who make life-and-death decisions as they protect the peace and defend a nation.”
The U.S. Navy contracted with Boeing for 11 UHF Follow-On satellites. Boeing Satellite Systems, the satellite-manufacturing arm of Boeing Integrated Defense Systems, has delivered 10 of the 11 satellites and is currently building the eleventh spacecraft. The satellites are launched aboard Atlas launch vehicles built by Lockheed Martin.
