01 Sep 04. A team led by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT – News) announced today that it has offered the U.S. Navy a network-centric solution for the Mobile User Objective System(MUOS), a next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system designed to significantly improve ground communications for U.S. forces on the move. The Lockheed Martin solution provides the warfighter with the latest mobile technology such as simultaneous voice, video and data, as well as improved service to legacy users of the Navy’s Ultra High Frequency Follow-On (UFO) system.
To deliver the best value and most effective solution, Lockheed Martin has teamed with industry leaders with extensive military satellite communications experience, including General Dynamics and Boeing Satellite Systems. The team recently submitted an amended proposal for the multi-billion dollar Risk Reduction, Design Development, Acquisition and Operations Support contract scheduled to be awarded by the U.S. Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), San Diego, Calif. in October 2004.
“In today’s changing environment, warfighters must be able to rapidly communicate in the dynamic battlefield they operate in,” said Leonard F. Kwiatkowski, vice president, Lockheed Martin Space Systems. “Our innovative architecture embraces mobile technology evolution and has the ability to increase capacity beyond current needs. This is truly a leap ahead for satellite-based communications and will greatly benefit the mobile warfighter over the next two decades.” Lockheed Martin’s award-winning A2100 design will serve as the MUOS spacecraft platform. General Dynamics will lead the user-entry and ground segments of the MUOS program, supplying a secure ground network and satellite management services. Boeing provides extensive UHF payload capability.
The team’s design will be fully compatible with the existing UFO system and associated legacy ground terminals while dramatically increasing military communications availability and providing real-time communications to mobile warfighters around the globe. MUOS will also maximize the full feature capability of future Joint Tactical Radio Systems terminals. The first MUOS satellite launch is planned for 2010.