- Boeing has secured a potential $2 billion Air Force contract for MUOS Phase II
- The award covers two satellites, launch support and on-orbit testing services
- The 2026 Air and Space Summit will feature discussions about commercial space relay, AI and more
Boeing has won a potential $2 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force to support the second phase of the Mobile User Objective System, or MUOS, service life extension program.
As the military advances efforts to modernize space-based communications capabilities, government and industry leaders will discuss key priorities at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Air and Space Summit. The event will feature panel discussions on commercial space relay, interoperable optical networks, artificial intelligence and machine learning, network modernization and other topics shaping the future of air and space operations. Reserve your seat now for the July 30 event!
The Department of War said Monday Space Systems Command conducted a competitive acquisition process and received two offers for the fixed-price-incentive-firm-target contract.
What Is the Scope of the Air Force Contract?
Under the award, Boeing will provide design, development and production services for two MUOS satellites as part of the Phase II service life extension effort. The contract also covers launch support and on-orbit testing activities for the narrowband military satellite communications constellation.
Work will take place in El Segundo, California, through Sept. 30, 2035.
The service obligated $204 million in fiscal 2026 research, development, test and evaluation funds at the time of award.
What Is the Background of the MUOS Service Life Extension Initiative?
The latest award follows earlier Air Force efforts to extend the operational life of the MUOS constellation.
In January 2024, Boeing and Lockheed Martin each received $66 million contracts for the first phase of the MUOS service life extension initiative. The contracts covered risk reduction and early design activities to minimize risks before transitioning to Phase II of the MUOS SLE program.
The service issued a solicitation for the MUOS SLE Phase I contract in March 2023.
What Is MUOS?
MUOS is DOW’s narrowband military satellite communications system. It provides ultra-high frequency voice, data and mobile communications capabilities for military users worldwide.
MUOS uses a satellite communications architecture based on a commercial third-generation Wideband Code Division Multiple Access cellular network. The system combines geosynchronous satellites and ground infrastructure to support communications for mobile users operating around the world.
