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Lockheed Martin has proven the readiness of its satellite design for the US Space Force’s upcoming Mobile User Objective System service life extension program, successfully completing an early design review.
The company’s successful execution of this review marks a critical milestone in the program, which is set to deliver next-generation Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellites vital for providing secure, crystal-clear communications to military forces on the move.
Lockheed Martin is one of two companies selected to develop the future MUOS satellite concepts under phase one of the service life extension (SLE) program, which focuses on early design activities and risk reduction. These satellites will play a key role in continuing to offer reliable communications capabilities for mobile military units.
Maria Hartin-Swart, program management director for Lockheed Martin’s MUOS SLE development, praised the team’s achievement: “In less than the initial one-year base period of performance, our team went above and beyond to deliver not only a successful early design review – but one so robust that it passed the rigorous standards of a more advanced design assessment.”
Leveraging its extensive expertise from building and maintaining the current MUOS constellation, Lockheed Martin is uniquely positioned to reduce risk and tackle the complexities of the mission. The company’s commitment to innovation and digital technology will ensure the future MUOS satellites operate effectively for years to come.
For its proposed MUOS satellites under the SLE program, Lockheed Martin has partnered with SEAKR Engineering, a leader in advanced electronics for space applications. Together, they have designed a new MUOS payload processor – a crucial electronics box aboard the spacecraft. This advanced processor integrates state-of-the-art technology to balance processing performance, resilience and resource usage.
A standout feature of this next-generation MUOS payload processor is its ability to be reprogrammed in space. This capability allows for the evolution of the satellite to meet emerging mission requirements throughout its operational life. The processor recently completed a successful customer demonstration and achieved a Technology Readiness Level-6 designation, confirming its readiness for production.
By integrating this proven electronics technology, Lockheed Martin ensures future MUOS satellites will be secure, adaptable and able to respond to an ever-changing threat environment.
MUOS is a network of orbiting satellites and ground relay stations designed to revolutionise secure communications for mobile military forces. The current MUOS constellation uses a unique Wideband Code Division Multiple Access waveform, enabling it to function like a conventional cellphone network, spreading users over a wide spectrum.
Currently, MUOS satellites provide more than 67,000 terminal and radio users with secure, beyond line-of-sight ultra-high frequency communications as well as simultaneous voice, video and mission data.
The system ensures reliable communication even in the most remote corners of the globe.
Following the conclusion of phase one, the US Space Force will select a provider for phase two, which will involve production, testing and the delivery of two new MUOS satellites for launch by 2030.
