The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the first Legacy Communications payload and the first digital channelizer to Lockheed Martin in support of the U.S. Navy's new Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) communications system. The Legacy Communications payload allows the Navy to use existing UHF ground- and space-based communications systems. MUOS is a network of satellites that will provide communications services to mobile and fixed equipment used by U.S. Military personnel around the world.

Boeing is under contract to MUOS prime contractor Lockheed Martin to build, test and deliver three Legacy Communications payloads and three digital channelizers for the MUOS satellite system. Boeing received the contract in 2004; the first MUOS satellite is scheduled for launch in 2010.

"Delivering the first legacy payload is another important milestone in Boeing's long history of providing ultra-high-frequency communications to the U.S. Navy and ultimately to the warfighters," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "The MUOS team's excellent work in meeting all performance requirements helps reduce the risk involved with new satellite programs."

Boeing integrated and tested the first flight payload subsystem at its satellite factory in El Segundo, Calif., and then shipped it to Lockheed Martin's Space Systems facility in Newtown, Pa., for final integration and payload testing.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.