Lockheed Martin announced a key milestone in the development of the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) 
with the successful completion of static loads testing of the first satellite in the program constellation. MUOS is a next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system. The new satellites, which will deliver simultaneous voice, data and video in real time to mobile terminals around the globe, will replace the current narrowband tactical satellite communications system known as the Ultra High Frequency Follow-On (UFO) system.
Lockheed Martin said the test validated the satellite’s strength and ability to sustain its launch weight of over 13,000 pounds, proving that the structure can carry the physical loads it will experience during the satellite’s manufacturing, launch and operation in geosynchronous orbit.
MUOS satellites will be the largest of Lockheed Martin’s flight-proven A2100 spacecraft series. The first MUOS satellite along with the associated ground system are scheduled for on-orbit hand over to the Navy in 2010.
Lockheed Martin Space Systems serves as prime contractor and systems engineering lead for the MUOS program. The company is under contract to design, build and deploy the first two MUOS satellites and the associated MUOS ground system.http://www.lockheedmartin.com
