Sailors assigned to Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific install the first of three new state-of-the-art Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite dishes. The MUOS is a next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system intended to significantly improve ground communications for U.S. forces on the move. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John W Ciccarelli Jr.WAHIAWA, Hawaii (NNS) -- Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station, Pacific (NCTAMS PAC), installed the first of three new state-of-the-art Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite dishes.
The MUOS is a next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system intended to extensively improve ground communications for U.S. forces during operations on the move.
"MUOS is a Department of Defense (DOD) Ultra High Frequency Satellite Communications system(UHFSC) that provides the warfighter with modern worldwide mobile communication services," said James Cairns, NCTAMS PAC, project manager.
"MUOS adapts commercial cellular phone architecture for use in a military system using satellites in place of cell towers."
Technicians raised the 34-ton dish up over 80 feet to its permanent spot where it will point to one of the five highly sophisticated satellites scheduled to be deployed into space starting in 2012.
"The General Dynamics Satellite Communications (SATCOM) team doing the assembly of the MUOS antennas are true professionals," said Cairns. "There was lots of planning that went into this evolution behind the scenes, but once we got all the pieces in place everything went off like clockwork."
Construction on the site began July 5, 2007 and will change the way the Navy transmits information into the 21st Century.
"MUOS will use technological innovations to provide service to more military users and offer a truly effective communication capability tool in accomplishing the Navy's maritime strategy mission."
"The great thing about MUOS is that it's smart technology but from the user's perspective it's simple and just plain works. The network is being designed to handle lots of users so units that don't have a SATCOM capability today will be able to have it in the near future with MUOS."
Lockheed Martin Space Systems, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the prime contractor and systems integrator for the MUOS program. On Sept. 24, 2004, the company was awarded a $2.1 billion contract to build the first two satellites and associated ground control elements for the MUOS system. The contract also provides for options on three additional spacecraft. With all options exercised, the contract for up to five satellites has a total potential value of $3.26 billion.
Capt. Janet Stewart, commanding officer, NCTAMS PAC was thrilled about the installation of the MUOS system and all the hard work the Navy and its partners did.
"A lot of folks and a lot of parties have come together to be able to make this installation, and this capability come to fruition. We have folks around the world and around the United States that have worked together for years and who will continue to work together for years until all the MUOS satellites are in fact launched and fully operational."
