MUOS software waveform delivered to US Navy

Lockheed Martin announced on 8 January that it has completed and delivered the software waveform for the US Navy's Mobile User Objective System (MUOS). A next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system, MUOS will provide significantly improved and secure communications capabilities, including simultaneous voice, video and data, for mobile and remote users.

The new waveform will enable military satellite communications terminal providers to deploy equipment that takes full advantage of enhanced MUOS capabilities. MUOS satellites 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. Lockheed Martin tailored a previously commercial waveform to be used with the new WCDMA payload.

The US government 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. This dual-payload design ensures a smooth transition to the cutting-edge WCDMA technology while the legacy system is phased out.

The first MUOS satellite and associated ground system already provide initial on-orbit capability. After the second MUOS satellite is launched in July 2013 and completes on-orbit testing and check-out with the MUOS ground system and a HMS Manpack terminal certified with the MUOS waveform, the system will provide full WCDMA capability to users.

Lockheed Martin is currently under contract to deliver five MUOS satellites and the associated ground system to the US Navy.