SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 18 (UPI) -- The first U.S. Navy's first next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system has completed on-orbit testing, Lockheed Martin reports.
The Mobile User Objective System satellite is expected to become operational next month following completion of a multi-service operational test and evaluation phase.
"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," said Mark Valerio, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin's Military Space line of business.
"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."
MUOS satellites are equipped with a wideband code division multiple access payload, providing a 16-fold increase in transmission throughput over the current Ultra High Frequency satellite system, including global connectivity through the Defense Information Systems Network.
A total of five MUOS satellites will be in operation by 2015.
