Airbus Awarded Oberon Satellites Contract By UK MOD

Airbus Wins Oberon Satellites Contract

Airbus has received the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) Oberon contract to develop and construct two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, which will provide round-the-clock, all-weather, space-based ‘Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance’ (ISR) capabilities.

The two Oberon satellites will feature active, ultra-high-resolution SAR, enhancing the UK MOD's operational flexibility and boosting the capabilities of British and allied defence forces.

Ben Bridge, Airbus Defence and Space UK Chairman, said: “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.”

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry Maria Eagle said: “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 partners with SMEs (Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises) across the UK to leverage cutting-edge technologies for 400kg satellites. Oxford Space Systems will supply the antennas for the spacecraft, recognized for their carbon fiber constructions that neatly stow for launch and unfurl into shape once in orbit. The ‘wrapped rib’ design is engineered to transmit and receive radar pulses essential for mapping the Earth's surface. 

Airbus will design, construct, and test the satellites at its space facilities in Stevenage and Portsmouth, creating numerous high-value jobs. The ground support segment and geospatial intelligence capabilities will be established at Airbus offices in Guildford, Newcastle, Newport, and Chippenham. The system will launch in 2027, enhancing the UK's information and decision-making superiority.

Paul Russell, the Space team leader within the MOD’s procurement department, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), stated: "This has truly been an extraordinary team effort involving DE&S, Space Command, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, and industry partners." 

“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 most prominent space company in the UK, Airbus plays a vital role in implementing the National Space Strategy while aiding British SMEs throughout its supply chains. The essential components of Oberon’s mission—including payload, space, and ground systems—will be designed, built, and operated in the UK. Additionally, antennas, receivers, AIT facilities, image-data processing software, and sensors will be delivered locally.