Boeing reports that its legacy communications payload onboard the Lockheed Martin-built Mobile User Objective System (MUOS-1) satellite has passed all on-orbit tests.

MUOS-1 was launched on Feb. 24 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., on an Atlas V launch vehicle. It is the first of five satellites being built by MUOS prime contractor Lockheed Martin, which subcontracted with Boeing in 2004 to build, test and deliver the legacy ultra-high-frequency (UHF) communications payload.

The UHF payload enables the U.S. Navy to use existing UHF ground- and space-based communications systems, extending the utility of the current system with an affordable and proven communications payload.

"The success of the MUOS-1 legacy payload demonstrates Boeing's ability to design and deliver UHF payloads that meet the warfighter's increasing need for satellite communications," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems.

"The UHF radio frequency, which is not blocked by jungle foliage, inclement weather or urban terrain, meets a critical requirement for military personnel."