UK Ministry of Defence Awards Airbus Contract for Oberon SAR Satellites
The launch is scheduled for 2027, allowing the British Armed Forces greater autonomy in space intelligence and global surveillance.
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The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has awarded Airbus the Oberon contract to design and build two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. These satellites will operate in all weather conditions, both day and night, enhancing the UK's sovereign defense capabilities.
Ultra-High-Resolution SAR Technology
The Oberon satellites will feature ultra-high-resolution SAR technology, providing the MOD with greater operational autonomy and reinforcing the defense capabilities of the UK and its allies.
Ben Bridge, President of Airbus Defence and Space UK, stated: "Airbus in the UK has over 45 years of experience in designing and building high-resolution radar satellites. Once in orbit, these spacecraft will play a crucial role in protecting our Armed Forces worldwide."
Boosting the UK’s Space Industry and Workforce
Maria Eagle, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, emphasized that the Oberon contract aligns with the UK’s commitment to growing its space industry and advancing cutting-edge technology:
"This system will not only support deployed Armed Forces globally but also create highly skilled jobs, contributing to the government’s growth agenda."
Collaboration with UK SMEs and Advanced Engineering
Airbus will work with British SMEs to integrate innovative technologies into the 400 kg satellites:
- Oxford Space Systems will supply deployable carbon-fiber antennas, designed in a wrapped-rib configuration for compact launch and efficient in-orbit deployment. These antennas will transmit and receive radar signals to map Earth's surface with high precision.
- The satellites will be designed, assembled, and tested at Airbus facilities in Stevenage and Portsmouth, supporting highly specialized jobs.
- The ground infrastructure and geospatial intelligence capabilities will be developed across Airbus sites in Guildford, Newcastle, Newport, and Chippenham.
Scheduled Launch in 2027
The Oberon system is set to launch in 2027, significantly enhancing the UK's strategic intelligence and decision-making capabilities.
Paul Russell, Space Team Leader at the MOD’s Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) division, described the contract as a collaborative achievement between DE&S, UK Space Command, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), and the industry:
"With Oberon, we will deliver cutting-edge SAR capability to UK Space Command, strengthening national security and prosperity. We look forward to working with Airbus as a key partner in this mission."
Airbus' Role in the UK’s National Space Strategy
As the UK’s largest space company, Airbus plays a pivotal role in delivering the National Space Strategy. The core components of the Oberon system, including its payload, space and ground systems, data processors, and sensors, will be designed and operated within the UK.
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