Airbus awarded Oberon satellites contract by UK MOD

Airbus awarded Oberon satellites contract by UK MOD
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Feb 12, 2025

Airbus has secured a contract from the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) to design and manufacture two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites under the Oberon program. These state-of-the-art satellites will provide round-the-clock, all-weather intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities from space.

Equipped with ultra-high-resolution SAR technology, the Oberon satellites will enhance the UK MOD's operational independence, offering advanced surveillance capabilities to British and allied forces.

Ben Bridge, Chairman of Airbus Defence and Space UK, emphasized the importance 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, UK Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, highlighted the strategic significance of the contract: "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."

Airbus is collaborating with several UK-based SMEs to incorporate advanced technologies into the 400kg satellites. Oxford Space Systems will supply the antennas, which use innovative carbon fiber structures capable of compact stowage for launch before deploying in orbit. The antennas' unique 'wrapped rib' design will enable the transmission and reception of radar pulses to create detailed Earth surface maps.

The satellites will be developed, assembled, and tested at Airbus' UK facilities in Stevenage and Portsmouth, ensuring job creation and retention within the country. Additionally, the satellite ground segment and geospatial intelligence systems will be developed at Airbus sites in Guildford, Newcastle, Newport, and Chippenham. The system is scheduled for launch in 2027, supporting the UK's information and decision-making capabilities.

Paul Russell, Space Team Leader at the MOD's Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) procurement division, praised the collaborative efforts behind the program: "This has been a superb team effort by members of DE&S, Space Command, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, as well as industry. With the award of the Oberon contract, we will deliver the next in a series of game-changing capabilities to UK Space Command, providing the UK military with leading space-based Synthetic Aperture Radar, whilst helping to keep our nation safe and prosperous. We are looking forward to working with Airbus as our mission partner to deliver this important capability together."

As the UK's largest space company, Airbus plays a crucial role in delivering the National Space Strategy while supporting British SMEs through its supply chain. The Oberon satellites' core mission components, including payloads, space and ground systems, antennas, receivers, AIT facilities, image-processing software, and sensors, will all be developed and operated within the UK.