Defense officials unveiled a plan to field protected military satellites that aim to secure communications and reinforce NATO ties by 2030.
The German Armed Forces plan to modernize the country’s space capabilities by introducing new satellite constellations for early warning, reconnaissance, and secure military communications. According to the German Ministry of Defense, these steps align with the country’s strategy to enhance space security.
On July 14, the German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius discussed plans to develop military space capabilities during a visit to the technology and space company OHB in Bremen.
One of the key elements of the future system will be new SATCOMBw military communication satellites.
With our new SATCOMBw communications satellites, we are taking an important next step. They are a decisive element of our future fully interconnected satellite architecture.
– Boris Pistorius
Plans and Scope of Germany’s Space Security
The SATCOMBw system is to provide the Bundeswehr with autonomous communications and information services, and the capabilities of the program’s third phase will form the basis for creating future expanded formations and fulfilling Germany’s commitments to NATO.
The minister noted that satellites are a critical infrastructure for both the armed forces and the civilian sector, as they are often attacked or attempted to be disabled, and this poses a real threat.
According to the head of the defense ministry, some countries are heavily investing in space offensive capabilities; Germany must respond quickly to these risks. By 2030, the country plans to invest around 35 billion euros in space security.
Partners and Industrial Base
During the meeting with OHB, Pistorius noted that German industry remains a key government partner in implementing the national space-security strategy.
OHB, which specializes in the development of small and medium-sized satellites and ground stations, is one of the key industrial partners in national space programs and provides a significant portion of contracts for the German armed forces (Bundeswehr).
They are also being targeted and attacked. These threats have long since become a reality
– Boris Pistorius
It is expected that implementing the SATCOMBw plans and deploying a broader satellite constellation will strengthen Germany’s defense capabilities and reinforce the country’s participation in the Euro-Atlantic security system.