An Iceye satellite in orbit. Photo: Iceye
Iceye has won another deal aimed at Europe’s defense market. It has won a contract with the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) as it looks to establish a sovereign, space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capability. This agreement marks an advancement in the Netherlands’ space-based defense capabilities and its commitment to strengthening national security through sovereign ISR assets. Iceye announced the deal, June 23.
Iceye will deliver a full suite of ISR solutions to the RNLAF, including four synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites capable of 25 cm resolution, a local ground segment and antenna, and a mobile ground segment featuring an autonomous, AI-driven imagery intelligence hub. The contract also includes the sale of satellite data from Iceye’s existing constellation.
This collaboration lays the groundwork for the first operational Dutch military satellite mission. Iceye reported it was realized in the timeframe of four months from contract signing to the delivery of the first system component, which the company said shows its “unique ability to offer sovereign ISR capabilities on an accelerated timeline, aligning with the Netherlands’ Défence and space strategies.”
“This collaboration positions the Netherlands at the forefront of European countries investing in this cutting-edge technology. Additionally, this recognizes the critical role of the space domain in national defense and underscores the Netherlands’ commitment to securing its interests in this vital new frontier of defense,” Lt. Gen. André Steur, commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, said in a statement.
In recent months, Iceye has announced a number of deals and partnerships in the European defense sector, including a joint venture with German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall, a deal for a SAR satellite for the Portuguese Air Force, and a satellite data agreement with the Situation Center at NATO HQ (SITCEN).