Germany Wants to Build a Military Satellite Network

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has called for the new military satellite network, valued at approximately €10bn ($11.7bn), to be completed on schedule and within budget. He said Germany cannot afford delays given the current security environment.

The project, known as SATCOMBw4, is designed to provide the Bundeswehr with its own satellite communications network similar to SpaceX's Starlink. The constellation is expected to include around 200 satellites, with the first 40 potentially becoming operational by 2029. Germany's Defense Ministry aims to finalize contracts for the project by the end of 2026.

Pistorius said the satellite network is essential for early warning, reconnaissance, surveillance and secure military communications in space. It is also intended to enable Germany to independently command and control its armed forces worldwide while strengthening the country's ability to meet its NATO commitments.

The project is being led by German aerospace company OHB in cooperation with Rheinmetall and, according to reports, Airbus Defence and Space. However, some analysts have expressed concerns that the consortium's structure could reduce price competition during procurement.

Germany plans to invest a total of €35bn ($40.9bn) in space security by 2030.

(Reuters, lud)