Overview
- The Space Systems Command awarded Boeing a contract worth up to $2 billion to design, build, deliver, integrate and provide on‑orbit test support for two new Mobile User Objective System satellites.
- The two follow‑on satellites are planned for launch no earlier than 2031 and 2032 and will expand the MUOS constellation to seven satellites so the network can continue operating through roughly 2035.
- Boeing prevailed over incumbent Lockheed Martin in the Service Life Extension competition; Lockheed built the five existing MUOS satellites that entered service in the 2010s.
- The Space Force has budgeted substantial MUOS funding in recent requests, including roughly $415 million in FY2026 R&D and an $856 million FY2027 R&D request, and plans procurement through 2031 to support the program.
- MUOS provides UHF narrowband links that penetrate foliage, buildings and bad weather to connect troops, ships and aircraft, and the award preserves that capability while the service studies shifting some narrowband functions to commercial providers.