Northrop Grumman Receives Timing Subsystem For AEHF Satellite

Frequency Electronics has delivered the Master Oscillator Group (MOG) to Northrop Grumman for communications payload on the US Air Force's fourth advanced extremely high frequency (AEHF) satellite.

The delivery, which is the fourth in a series of MOGs for the six-satellite AEHF programme, provides anti-jam communication links to US armed forces and key allies.

The MOG, which includes modern Rubidium master oscillators and a master oscillator synthesizer or distribution unit, is integrated by Lockheed Space Systems and operated by the US Air Force Space Command.

The MOG provides timing data and fixed reference frequencies for the payload and spacecraft, as part of the payload's Time and Reference Frequency subsystem and ensures synchronisation of internal and earth clocks perfectly.

Frequency Electronics is also contracted to provide additional sets of MOGs for AEHF satellites which are expected to start delivery in 2015.

The company provides protected military satellite communication payloads for AEHF to system prime contractor Lockheed Martin.

According to the company, an advanced EHF is the next generation of protected military satellite communications satellites and offers improved global, survivable, highly secure, protected communications for strategic command and tactical warfighters operating on ground, sea and air platforms.