Rheinmetall and Space Norway are expanding their collaboration on space-based capabilities, covering the maritime domain through a signed memorandum of understanding.
Building on an existing partnership, the latest agreement covers satellite communications, sensors, and mission systems, as well as their integration with command and information systems. It also establishes a framework for joint opportunities.
The memorandum centers on integrating the Norwegian company’s C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites alongside Germany’s X-band SAR systems, delivered by the Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions joint venture.
Both complement each other, as X-band SAR provides high-resolution surveillance of individual targets and C-band SAR offers broad-area coverage of maritime regions.
Together, they provide continuous and comprehensive maritime domain awareness.
“Our focus is on close, practical cooperation in reconnaissance and maritime surveillance, as well as providing the necessary infrastructure,” said Timo Haas, CEO of Rheinmetall’s Digital Systems Division.
Boosting Space Intelligence
Germany has been working on strengthening its military space capabilities to counter increasing risks from Russia and China, allocating up to 35 billion euros ($41 billion) for the effort.
These initiatives are intended to secure and defend its sovereignty and strengthen allied defense by improving the ability to monitor large areas, detect objects of interest, and turn data into actionable intelligence.
Rheinmetall has been involved in several projects, including the development of German space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, as well as sovereign geospatial intelligence.
