TerraSAR X and TanDEM X flying in close formation. Photo: DLR

[Via Satellite 05-23-2014] Airbus Defence and Space and BAE Systems have partnered to target commercial, United States government and select international customers with Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) products from X-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites. The two companies will use the TerraSAR X and TanDEM X radar satellites to develop a new line of products.

The resulting GEOINT products will enhance mission planning for defense customers, support flight systems, improve emergency response, and help the world’s energy sector strategically plan new power grids, plot pipelines and manage resources.

“BAE Systems’ unique expertise will leverage the SAR data we are collecting into refined sets of geospatial intelligence products, that meet stringent U.S. government standards,” said Evert Dudok, head of communications, intelligence and security at Airbus Defence and Space.

The TanDEM X and TerraSAR X satellites use high-resolution X-Band SAR systems that can collect data through cloud cover. The imagery is used for precision change detection applications, maritime monitoring, digital elevation modeling and various other applications. Airbus Defence and Space and BAE Systems’ new products will target defense, energy and other markets.