Airbus Secures £127 Million Contract to Develop Advanced Surveillance Satellites for UK Ministry of Defence

In a significant advancement for the UK's defense capabilities, Airbus has been awarded a £127 million contract by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) to design and build two state-of-the-art Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites under the Oberon program. These satellites are set to revolutionize space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) by providing high-resolution, day-and-night, all-weather monitoring capabilities.

Key Features of the Oberon Satellites:

• Ultra-High-Resolution Imaging: The Oberon satellites will be equipped with advanced SAR technology, enabling them to capture detailed images of the Earth's surface regardless of lighting or weather conditions. This ensures uninterrupted surveillance and intelligence gathering.

• Enhanced Operational Autonomy: By developing these satellites domestically, the UK secures a sovereign surveillance capability, reducing reliance on foreign assets and enhancing operational independence for British and allied defense forces.

• Innovative Antenna Technology: Collaborating with Oxford Space Systems, Airbus will integrate cutting-edge carbon fiber antennas into the satellites. These antennas are designed to be compact during launch and deploy into their operational configuration once in orbit, optimizing space and functionality.

Development and Deployment Timeline:

The design, construction, and testing phases of the Oberon satellites will be conducted at Airbus' facilities in Stevenage and Portsmouth. The project is expected to support numerous high-value jobs across these locations. Additionally, the development of the supporting satellite ground segment and geospatial intelligence capabilities will take place at Airbus' sites in Guildford, Newcastle, Newport, and Chippenham. The system is slated for launch in 2027, aiming to significantly contribute to the UK's information and decision-making superiority.

Strategic Importance:

The Oberon project is a pivotal component of the UK's broader strategy to establish a global military satellite ISR capability under Project ISTARI. Historically, the UK has relied on intelligence-sharing agreements, particularly with the United States, for such data. The development of the Oberon satellites marks a decisive move towards achieving an autonomous on-orbit constellation by 2031, thereby enhancing national security and strategic flexibility.

Industry Collaboration:

Airbus' partnership with Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) across the UK underscores the collaborative nature of the project. By leveraging innovative technologies from these SMEs, the Oberon program not only advances the UK's defense capabilities but also stimulates growth and innovation within the domestic space sector.

Statements from Key Figures:

Ben Bridge, Chairman of Airbus Defence and Space UK, emphasized the significance of the project: "Oberon's satellites will give the UK a much-needed sovereign capability and greatly enhance its space surveillance and intelligence autonomy. Airbus in the UK has more than 45 years' experience in the design and build of high-resolution radar satellites, and once in orbit, these spacecraft will play a vital role in keeping our Armed Forces safe around the world."

Maria Eagle, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, highlighted the government's commitment: "The contract for Oberon shows the UK's commitment to grow one of the most innovative and attractive space economies in the world and keep our competitive edge in space science and technology. Oberon will not only support Armed Forces personnel deployed globally but also support highly skilled jobs, delivering on the government's growth mission."

The Oberon contract represents a significant milestone in the UK's pursuit of advanced space-based defense capabilities. By investing in cutting-edge SAR satellite technology and fostering collaboration with domestic enterprises, the UK is poised to enhance its surveillance, intelligence, and reconnaissance operations, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its Armed Forces worldwide.