Airbus to build and launch advanced German military satellites for more than $2 billion

Airbus has signed a $2.27 billion contract with the German Army for the third phase of a new generation of secure military satellite.

Here's What We Know

The 15-year contract for the Bundeswehr's SATCOMBw 3 satellite communications system includes geostationary satellites, ground segment, launch and operation. Airbus will develop, integrate, test and deliver two new GEO (geostationary earth orbit) military telecommunications satellites by the end of the decade.

The contract provides for the modernisation of the existing ground segment to launch old and new satellites over the next 15 years, with the possibility of extension.

"Following the success of the SATCOMBw Stage 2 programme, which we have supported since 2009, this contract strengthens our strategic partnership with the Bundeswehr by providing them with significantly enhanced Milsatcom security capabilities that will be future-proofed well into the 2040s," said Michael Scholhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space.

Flashback

SATCOMBw 3 is the successor to the COMSAT B 1B and 2B satellites, and it also integrates the most advanced technologies. It is based on the Eurostar Neo platform and is able to be updated in line with rapid changes in digitalisation and the demands of increasing data transmission.

This system is essential for Germany's "autonomous and independent communication and information services". SATCOMBw provides the Bundeswehr with a global command and information capability that enables it to fulfil NATO's commitments in this area.

Source: Airbus