Airbus secures UK defense deal for Oberon satellites
Airbus has signed a contract for Oberon satellites with the British Ministry of Defence. The company will design and build two units equipped with SAR radar, capable of providing "intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance" (ISR) around the clock and throughout the year.
The European company Airbus Defence and Space will construct two Oberon radar satellites for the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence (MOD). These units will feature synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and deliver intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities continuously and irrespective of weather conditions directly from space.
To support the operational capability of the UK Armed Forces
As reported by Airbus, the SAR radar included in the satellites' equipment will grant the British Ministry of Defence operational freedom and enhanced capabilities for the UK Armed Forces and its allies. Ben Bridge, Chairman of Airbus Defence and Space UK, highlighted in the company's statement that the Oberon satellites will provide essential autonomy.
Oberon satellites will protect the military from space
With over 45 years of experience in designing high-resolution radars, Airbus in the United Kingdom will play a crucial role in safeguarding the UK Armed Forces globally once these spacecraft are launched into orbit.
Maria Eagle, the Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, noted that the contract for the Oberon satellites signifies the UK's commitment to developing one of the most advanced and attractive space economies in the world, aimed at preserving competitive advantages in space sciences and technologies. Oberon is designed to support both military personnel deployed worldwide and highly skilled jobs.
Airbus collaborated with small and medium-sized enterprises throughout the United Kingdom to leverage innovative technologies for the 880-pound satellites. The antennas will be provided by Oxford Space Systems, which has designed carbon fiber structures that fold into small volumes for launch but deploy upon entering orbit. This "packed" design will ensure the transmission and reception of radar pulses for mapping the Earth's surface.
Satellites will reach orbit in 2027
The design, construction, and testing of the satellites will take place at Airbus's space centers in Stevenage and Portsmouth. The satellite's ground segment and geointelligence capabilities will be developed at Airbus facilities in Guildford, Newcastle, Newport, and Chippenham. The Oberon satellites will reach orbit in 2027 and will contribute to the UK's information and decision-making advantage.
As the largest UK space company, Airbus plays a significant role in implementing the National Space Strategy, supporting UK small and medium-sized enterprises. Key components of the Oberon mission (payload, space, and ground systems) will be designed, built, and operated in the UK, encompassing the delivery of antennas and receivers, AIT equipment, image data processing software, and sensors.
