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Space Force extends MUOS constellation to support worldwide tactical communications with procurement of two satellites

  • Published
  • Space Systems Command
Summary: The U.S. Space Force is extending the Mobile User Objective System, or MUOS, constellation with the procurement of two additional satellites to deliver secure, reliable tactical communications for joint and coalition warfighters worldwide.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – The U.S. Space Force is advancing the global narrowband satellite communications architecture with the procurement of two Mobile User Objective System, or MUOS, satellites to deliver secure, reliable voice and data communications for warfighters on land, at sea, and in the air.

The Acting Space Force Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Satellite Communications and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing awarded a $2.0 billion contract to The Boeing Company to design and build Space Vehicles 6 and 7 for MUOS, the military’s premier global narrowband communications network.

“This award strengthens our global communications infrastructure, ensuring our joint and coalition partners have the tools needed for advanced mil-UHF WCDMA communications,” said Erin Carper, acting Space Force PAE for SATCOM and PNT. “By empowering our warfighters with secure and reliable connectivity, we enhance operational effectiveness across the globe.”

The contract encompasses development, delivery, system integration and on-orbit test support of the two new space vehicles. This award marks the culmination of a competitive MUOS Service Life Extension, or MUOS SLE, Phase II acquisition, which builds on design work completed in a previous phase.

The MUOS SLE program, managed by the Narrowband SATCOM Division of Space Systems Command’s System Delta 88, is designed to address the approaching end-of-service life for existing satellites and proactively prevents a communications gap for warfighters.

Planned for launch no earlier than 2031 and 2032, these new space vehicles will directly support warfighters by extending the MUOS constellation’s operational lifespan to 2035.

“Our priority is delivering resilient space systems that keep our forces connected during their most critical missions,” said Kate Coens, senior materiel leader for the Narrowband SATCOM Division. “Through a competitive acquisition strategy and strong industry partnership, Space Systems Command and System Delta 88 are maximizing taxpayer value and leveraging industry innovation.”

MUOS is a Department of War narrowband satellite communication system that provides secure, worldwide military Ultra-High Frequency, or mil-UHF, satellite communications to a multi-service population of mobile and fixed-site users. The two new space vehicles will extend the system’s Wideband Code Division Multiple Access, or WCDMA, capability. This ensures continuity of operations for current and planned radio terminals, enabling U.S. and coalition partners to maintain a distinct tactical advantage.

About Space Systems Command
Space Systems Command is the U.S. Space Force field command responsible for acquiring, developing, and delivering resilient capabilities to outpace emerging threats and protect our Nation’s strategic advantage in, from, and to space. SSC manages a $15.6 billion annual space acquisition budget for the Department of War, working with joint forces, industry partners, government agencies, academia, and allied nations. For more information, visit ssc.spaceforce.mil and follow @USSF-SSC on LinkedIn.

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