US-based Spire Global and German firm Diehl Defence have signed an agreement to explore cooperation on space-based intelligence, surveillance, and missile warning capabilities.
Announced at the ILA Berlin Air Show 2026, the initiative focuses on the potential use of satellite systems to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missile threats.
The companies said they will assess how their respective technologies could be combined to support early warning and space-based reconnaissance missions.
Satellite Data and Air Defense
Spire operates a constellation of small satellites that collect radio-frequency signals and geolocation data.
The network supports near-real-time tracking and analysis for defense missions, including missile warning, electronic interference detection, and space domain awareness.
Through the partnership, “we are expanding our position as a systems house, connecting intelligence from space to weapons systems and command centers,” stated Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence.
The agreement with Diehl Defense comes as Spire recently expanded its presence in Germany by opening a satellite manufacturing facility in Munich.
Designed to produce up to 100 satellites annually, the site supports satellite assembly, payload integration, and testing activities.
Growing Focus on Space
The partnership aligns with Berlin’s broader push to strengthen military space capabilities.
Earlier this year, the European nation reportedly considered investments of up to 35 billion euros ($41 billion) in space programs aimed at improving security and resilience in orbit.
Part of that effort includes plans for an encrypted military satellite network of more than 100 spacecraft.
