Hanwha and BAE Systems Join Forces to Develop Advanced Space-Based Surveillance Satellite System

Hanwha Systems of South Korea and BAE Systems of the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop a next-generation multi-sensor satellite system, aimed at transforming how surveillance and intelligence are gathered from space. The partnership brings together the technical strengths of both defence giants, with a focus on creating a cutting-edge space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability.

At the core of this collaboration is the integration of BAE Systems’ advanced ultra-wideband Radio Frequency (RF) sensor technology and Hanwha Systems’ growing expertise in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite development. Together, they plan to create a new satellite platform that can collect, combine, and analyze data from multiple sources in orbit. By using machine learning to process fused data from both RF and SAR sensors, the system will provide high-resolution, real-time insights that can support critical decision-making for defence and security operations.

This new initiative is particularly significant at a time when global interest in space-based ISR is rapidly increasing. Small SAR satellites are gaining recognition for their ability to offer consistent imaging, even through clouds and in darkness—capabilities that optical satellites often lack. RF sensing, on the other hand, allows for the detection and tracking of electronic signals and activities on the ground, making the fusion of these two technologies a powerful combination for comprehensive situational awareness.

Leaders from both companies expressed optimism about the collaboration. Rachael Hoyle, Space Director at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, highlighted the potential for this partnership to push the boundaries of ISR capabilities for international markets. Hanwha’s Space Division Head, Sung-Chan Song, emphasized the growing strategic value of small SAR satellites and expressed confidence in the partnership's potential to expand their global satellite footprint.

Hanwha Systems is already a key player in South Korea's military space ambitions. It has been instrumental in the 425 Project, South Korea’s first military reconnaissance satellite program, and successfully launched a 1-meter resolution small SAR satellite in December 2023. This satellite was entirely developed using domestic technology, showcasing Hanwha’s ability to independently support national Earth observation and defence needs.

Moreover, Hanwha is also contributing to the development of South Korea’s first low Earth orbit (LEO) communications satellite under the leadership of the Agency for Defense Development (ADD). These efforts are all part of a broader national push to build a secure and independent satellite constellation for military use.

The MoU with BAE Systems marks a significant step for both companies. For Hanwha, it opens new doors to the international defence and space market. For BAE Systems, it strengthens its position in satellite-based sensing technologies and broadens its reach in the Asia-Pacific region. As the two firms begin their joint research and development, the satellite system they aim to create could redefine how data is gathered, analyzed, and used from orbit—making space an even more critical domain for global defence operations.