Raytheon corporate headquarters. Photo: Raytheon

Raytheon signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.K. Ministry of Defense to join Team Artemis Industry, a collaboration between government and industry formed to fast track the launch of a small satellite constellation and enhance the U.K.’s sovereign space capability. Raytheon and the U.K. MOD have previously partnered on several defense projects, including tactical airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance solutions used by the armed forces. Raytheon’s experience in developing space systems aims to strengthen MOD’s space plans and their commitment to launch a small satellite demonstrator within a year with Team ARTEMIS Industry.

“In large part because of U.S. efforts to raise the profile of military space, allies are working hard to ‘close the space gap,'” said Air Vice-Marshal Rocky Rochelle, Royal Air Force chief of staff for capability.

“Raytheon provides advanced satellite-based mission planning and data processing capabilities to governments around the world,” said Dave Wajsgras, president of Raytheon Intelligence, Information and Services. “The collaboration between Raytheon and the U.K. Armed Forces will deliver new capabilities that directly benefit this important alliance.””Raytheon has worked with the UK for decades to develop exceptional defense, aerospace and cyber capabilities,” said Richard Daniel, CEO of Raytheon UK. “Being part of Team ARTEMIS Industry will only further strengthen that relationship as we work and invest to jointly develop and support the UK’s space systems.”