Airbus Oberon satellite system. Photo: Airbus

The U.K. Ministry of Defense (MoD) awarded Airbus a contract to design and build two synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites as part of the Oberon program, Airbus announced Feb. 10.

The two satellites will utilize high resolution SAR technology, allowing them to capture detailed images of the Earth’s surface regardless of weather conditions or time of day. Airbus has been involved with the MoD on studies for SAR satellites since 2019. 

The 400 kg satellites will be designed, built and tested at Airbus’ space facilities in Stevenage and Portsmouth, England. The system’s satellite ground segment and geospatial intelligence capabilities will be developed in Guildford, Newcastle, Newport, and Chippenham. The system is expected to launch in 2027.

The development of the Oberon satellites involves collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises across the U.K. Oxford Space Systems will supply the antennas, which feature a carbon fiber structure that deploys in orbit.

Paul Russell, the Defense Equipment and Support team leader at the MoD, said: “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 U.K. military with leading space-based synthetic aperture radar, whilst helping to keep our nation safe and prosperous.”