Harris Corporation (NYSE: HRS – News), the world leader in spaceborne unfurlable mesh reflectors, today announced that it has been selected by Lockheed Martin Space and Strategic Missiles, Sunnyvale, California, for a potential three-year, $37 million risk reduction design development (RRDD) program to provide unfurlable mesh reflectors for Department of Defense (DoD) Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellites. MUOS is a next-generation, mobile communications system that will provide narrowband, tactical satellite communications to deployed warfighters. Including production options, the potential value of the contract for Harris could reach $90 million by 2013 if the DoD opts to produce all five satellites.
Under terms of the contract, Harris is providing Lockheed Martin with spaceborne unfurlable mesh reflector technology for the MUOS program. The reflectors, two per satellite, will be manufactured at Harris facilities in Palm Bay, Florida, as part of the MUOS geo-synchronous satellite’s ultra high- frequency (UHF)-band antenna system. The 5- and 12-meter reflectors, attached to the satellite bus by booms, include gold mesh reflective surfaces and are stowed for launch much like an umbrella. Once the MUOS satellite achieves operational orbit 22,000 miles above earth, ground controllers will send a command signal to the satellite to unfurl the reflectors.
“The selection of Harris unfurlable mesh reflectors for the MUOS satellite further demonstrates our worldwide leadership in the provision of these unique antenna systems, which are used on defense and intelligence satellites in a wide variety of missions,” said Russ Haney, president of the National Programs business unit of Harris Corporation’s Government Communications Systems Division (GCSD). “We are pleased that Lockheed Martin has selected Harris as its teammate to provide the best-in-class approach for MUOS in addressing the mobility requirements of tomorrow’s warfighter.”
MUOS will enhance the U.S. Navy’s existing satellite tactical communications system, UHF Follow-On (UFO), by providing defense forces with critical tactical communications in remote, rugged locations that challenge conventional technologies. Initial operation of MUOS is expected by 2010.
Harris GCSD, one of four divisions within Harris Corporation, conducts advanced research studies, develops prototypes, and produces and supports state-of-the-art, assured communications(TM) solutions and information systems that solve the mission-critical challenges of its military and government customers, while serving as the technology base for the company’s diverse commercial businesses. Harris Corporation, which also provides tactical radio, microwave, and broadcast products and systems, serves customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit http://www.harris.com.
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Forward-Looking Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect management’s current expectations, assumptions and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. Such statements are made in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and future trends to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements about the expected value of the program to Harris are forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties. Other factors that may impact the company’s results and forward-looking statement may be disclosed in the company’s filings with the SEC. Harris disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
