The UK’s next-generation military communications satellite, SKYNET 6A, has successfully completed its initial testing phase at the government-funded National Satellite Test Facility (NSTF) in Harwell, Oxfordshire. This marks a major milestone for the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) satellite communications programme, which is set to enhance the UK’s secure military connectivity worldwide.
Strengthening UK’s Defence Communications
The SKYNET programme underpins the UK’s strategic satellite communications (SATCOM) capability, enabling battlefield information advantage for UK and allied forces across land, sea, and air. As the largest single government investment in the UK space industry, SKYNET 6 underscores Britain’s commitment to advanced defence technologies.
SKYNET 6A, the first satellite in the new programme, will incorporate:
- Cutting-edge digital processing to enhance data transmission capabilities.
- Advanced radio frequency spectrum utilisation for greater operational flexibility.
- Improved resilience and security features to protect against emerging threats.
Jason Gnaneswaran, Senior Responsible Owner for SKYNET 6, highlighted the satellite’s impact: “SKYNET 6 will provide our deployed forces with world-leading, on-demand communications—whether on the battlefield, at sea, or in the air. This milestone is a major achievement, ensuring the satellite’s long-term functionality and demonstrating the value of collaboration between MOD, industry, and government partners.”
A Boost for the UK Space Industry
SKYNET 6A, scheduled for launch in 2026, will be the first entirely UK-designed, built, and tested military communications satellite. It will provide secure and reliable communications for at least 15 years, supporting a wide range of military operations worldwide.
The programme is also a significant economic driver, sustaining 550 highly skilled jobs across Stevenage, Corsham, and Portsmouth. Additionally, the Harwell space cluster, home to over 100 space organisations, is set to attract further investment and boost Britain’s sovereign space capabilities.
Dr Barbara Ghinelli, Director for the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s Innovation Clusters, stated: “The NSTF is accelerating the UK’s journey towards space commercialisation. By supporting projects like SKYNET 6A, we are strengthening Britain’s position as a global leader in space innovation and defence technology.”
Collaborative Success with Industry Leaders
The next phase of testing will continue throughout 2024, with Airbus Defence and Space UK working alongside the MOD and RAL Space to ensure mission readiness. The satellite’s final qualification tests will validate its resilience before deployment into orbit.
Ben Bridge, Chairman of Airbus Defence and Space UK, emphasized Airbus’ long-standing role in UK defence: “Airbus has proudly supported the MOD’s SKYNET programme for over 40 years, ensuring UK sovereign capability in satellite communications. SKYNET 6A represents a major leap forward, providing cutting-edge capabilities to our armed forces.”
Advancing the Future of UK Defence
As the UK expands its military space infrastructure, SKYNET 6 remains central to national security and force integration, ensuring UK and allied forces remain connected and informed wherever they operate.
With military space increasingly contested, SKYNET 6A reinforces Britain’s role as a leader in secure satellite communications, strengthening defence resilience and boosting UK space industry expertise.
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