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Lockheed Martin Completes On-Orbit Testing with First MUOS Satellite

By Jeffrey Hill | July 19, 2012

      [Satellite TODAY 07-19-12] Lockheed Martin has completed on-orbit testing of the first U.S. Navy next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system, the manufacturer announced July 18.

         Lockheed Martin Vice President and General Manager of Government Services Mark Valerio said the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite would commence operations next month following completion of a multi-service operational test and evaluation phase.
         MUOS satellites were designed to include a wideband code division multiple access payload that aims to provide a 16-fold increase in transmission throughput over the military’s current Ultra High Frequency satellite system, including global connectivity through the Defense Information Systems Network. The U.S. Department of Defense expects five MUOS satellites to be in operation by 2015.
         “The successful on-orbit checkout of this revolutionary satellite is a great testament to the close coordination and partnership between the U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin team,” Valerio said in a statement. “This event is another major milestone in our commitment to provide unparalleled communications capabilities that put mission-critical, real-time information in the hands of our mobile warfighters.”