U.S. Space Force Wants More Narrowband Communication Satellites

The U.S. Space Force is intending to add two more Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellites to support secure narrowband communication for military users. A solicitation on March 24 started the initial phase of the effort, which focuses on early design and risk reduction work. Up to two companies will receive a 12-to-18-month contract by September. The Space Force anticipates that by fiscal year 2025, it will have selected a single company to deliver the satellites. The aim is to launch the first satellite prior to the end of FY30.

The MUOS satellites built by Lockheed Martin will join an active constellation of four spacecraft, plus one orbiting spare. MUOS narrowband communication satellites operate in the frequency range of 300MHz to 3GHz, a range that ensures better weather resilience and ideal secure information transfer, particularly in difficult terrain.

The Space Force estimates it will require a budget of $2.5 billion between FY24 and FY28 for the program, which includes $230 million for next year. The acquisition meant to extend the life of the constellation, and provide resiliency to the MUOS program until the military has a longer-term plan for narrowband communications, including integrating commercial satellites. The solicitation does not reveal specific information about the new MUOS satellites’ features.

Designed to replace the Ultra High Frequency Follow-on (UFO) system, MUOS offers two payloads, one to keep the legacy UHF network, and the other provides a new capability for Wideband Code Division Multiple Access. The system provides ten times the capacity of its predecessor.

Possible bidders for the project include Northrop Grumman, Boeing, and Lockheed, which all took part in a series of studies the Space Force continued after the Navy’s initial initiatives, exploring options for keeping the program active.