3nd times the charm for MUOS-1

2/24/2012 - CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. -- The 45th Space Wing supported the launch of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the first satellite of the U.S. Navy's Mobile User Objective System.

The Atlas V MUOS-1 was launched at 5:15 p.m. EST, Feb. 24, 2012, from Cape Canaveral's Space Launch Complex 41.

The MUOS is a narrowband Military Satellite Communications system that supports a worldwide network of joint mobile and fixed-site terminal users in the Ultra High Frequency band. The system is comprised of a constellation of four operational geosynchronous satellites, one on-orbit spare satellite, and a ground control and network management system.

"The new MUOS constellation will bring a robust 'communications on the move' capability to the mobile warfighter," said Brig. Gen. Anthony Cotton, 45th Space Wing commander. "The entire government and contractor team worked together flawlessly to make this launch a success."

The MUOS will provide greater than 10 times the system capacity of the U.S. Navy's current UHF Follow-On constellation.

This is the second launch on the Eastern Range this year, with nine more launches scheduled.

"The 45th Space Wing and Eastern Range continue to be busy with these important launches, and we are proud of this vital role in our nation's defense."