This GBP 40 million project aims to equip the UK's armed forces with advanced space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) tools for global military operations. The contract supports around 200 high-skill jobs, contributing to the expansion of the UK space sector and the broader economy.
Named Juno, the satellite will be equipped with advanced daytime imagery sensors, further enhancing the ISR capabilities established by Tyche, the first satellite launched by UK Space Command in August. Juno is scheduled to launch in 2027 and will play a crucial role in strengthening UK Space Command's satellite constellation as part of the MoD's strategic ISR initiative.
"This program, targeted for completion by 2031, will create an integrated network of satellites and ground systems to support defense operations and aid other government activities, such as disaster response, environmental monitoring, and climate impact assessment.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry Maria Eagle remarked on the significance of the contract: "The contract for Juno shows the UK's commitment to grow one of the most innovative and attractive space economies in the world and keep our competitive edge in space science and technology. Juno will not only support Armed Forces personnel deployed globally, but also support highly skilled jobs, delivering on the government's growth mission."
Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton underscored the strategic advancements made by the program: "With Tyche in space, and Juno now on contract, UK Space Command's ISTARI programme is making great strides, showcasing innovation and collaboration across government and industry. With these Earth Observation satellites on orbit, UK Space Command and defence will be better equipped to conduct all-domain military operations and deliver assured space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to the joint force and our allies."
SSTL was awarded the Juno contract through a competitive procurement process. The company, which also produced the Tyche satellite, employs roughly 400 specialists at sites in Guildford and Bordon. With about half of the workforce expected to engage with the Juno project, the initiative will significantly contribute to the UK's expertise in the global space sector and inform future space capability requirements.
Andrew Cawthorne, SSTL's Managing Director, shared his perspective on the continued partnership: "We're incredibly proud that the Ministry of Defence has again placed its trust in SSTL to deliver the UK's next sovereign intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance spacecraft.
"Juno will offer a step change in imaging capability over Tyche, SSTL's demonstrator spacecraft which launched in August and is now being operated for UK Space Command. We look forward to continuing our successful relationship with UK Space Command, DE&S, and Dstl, and playing a leading role in delivering the UK Defence Space Strategy."
Paul Russell, Space team leader at DE&S, added insight into the collaborative effort behind the contract: "Placing contracts and managing delivery of a new generation of UK military capabilities for use in a complex and critical environment takes incredible focus and collaborative working with our defence and industry partners. These efforts are key in ensuring the UK Armed Forces have access to the surveillance and intelligence information they need to maintain a competitive edge."
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