Radaraufnahmen vom Feind: Rheinmetall startet Serienproduktion von Weltraumsatelliten

Neuss, Germany - The defense contracting company Rheinmetall has begun serial production of space-based satellites, marking a significant step forward in their technological capabilities. The company revealed that they have transitioned from planning and setup to the industrial implementation of these satellites in Neuss. These satellites, produced in collaboration with the Finnish satellite operator Iceye, feature a technology known as Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).

This innovative technology generates precise images of enemy movements and positions, even in darkness and adverse weather conditions. Rheinmetall plans to manufacture around 50 of these satellites annually, with the first Neussian satellite set to be launched into orbit by SpaceX at the beginning of 2027. The images captured by these satellites will be sold to the Bundeswehr and other armies.

The two companies Rheinmetall and Iceye have an ongoing, multi-year contract with the Bundeswehr valued at 1.7 billion Euros. It has been reported that the Bundeswehr has secured exclusive access to an undisclosed number of SAR satellites to ensure prompt delivery of images. These radars are particularly beneficial for the NATO eastern flank, providing them with an accurate situational awareness.

This technology also supports the Bundeswehr brigade stationed in Lithuania. Competitors in the satellite market include Airbus Defence and Space and the Bremer company OHB. With these satellites, Rheinmetall broadens its product portfolio, complementing their traditional offerings of artillery, tanks, and munitions. They now also sell ship and aircraft components, and are expanding their drone business.