Airbus is collaborating with UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to incorporate cutting-edge technology into the 400kg satellites
The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has awarded Airbus a contract to design and manufacture two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites as part of the Oberon programme. These satellites will provide the UK with advanced, all-weather, day-and-night space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, strengthening national security and defence operations.
Equipped with ultra-high-resolution SAR technology, the Oberon satellites will enhance the UK’s sovereign surveillance capabilities while offering greater operational flexibility to British and allied forces. The technology will allow the military to monitor global activities with precision, regardless of weather or lighting conditions.
Ben Bridge, Chairman of Airbus Defence and Space UK, emphasised the strategic importance of the project: “Oberon will deliver a crucial sovereign capability, ensuring the UK maintains space surveillance and intelligence autonomy. With over 45 years of experience in high-resolution radar satellites, Airbus is proud to contribute to the safety and effectiveness of our Armed Forces worldwide.”
Defence Procurement and Industry Minister Maria Eagle reiterated the UK’s focus on advancing space technology, stating: “This contract reinforces the UK’s ambition to be a leader in the global space economy. Oberon will not only support our Armed Forces but also create high-value jobs and drive innovation in the space sector.”
Airbus is collaborating with UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to incorporate cutting-edge technology into the 400kg satellites. Oxford Space Systems will provide carbon-fibre deployable antennas, designed to compactly stow for launch and expand in orbit to transmit and receive radar signals.
The development and testing of the satellites will take place at Airbus facilities in Stevenage and Portsmouth, ensuring the creation of numerous high-skilled jobs. Additionally, ground-based and geospatial intelligence capabilities will be set up in Guildford, Newcastle, Newport, and Chippenham, strengthening the UK’s broader space industry.
Paul Russell, Space Team Lead at Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), highlighted the significance of the programme: “The Oberon contract marks a major step in delivering next-generation space-based ISR for UK Space Command. This programme ensures the UK military has access to world-class Synthetic Aperture Radar technology, reinforcing national security.”
Scheduled for launch in 2027, the Oberon satellites are expected to significantly enhance the UK’s intelligence and decision-making capabilities, further solidifying the nation’s leadership in space defence technology.
Airbus, a global aerospace leader, specialises in the design, manufacturing, and delivery of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defence systems, and space technologies. Headquartered in Europe, the company is known for its innovative approach to aviation, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, fuel efficiency, and digital transformation.
