Airbus has secured a contract with the U.K. Ministry of Defence to supply advanced modems for the Skynet satellite communications network.
The new hardware, called Future Protected Modem-A, will replace the existing Paradigm Modem System and support both the operational Skynet 5 satellites and the upcoming Skynet 6A satellite.
The modems, manufactured in the United Kingdom, feature advanced software-defined radio technology capable of hosting various waveforms and an intuitive network management system for efficient spectrum use and equipment monitoring. The new modem, including full logistics and training support, is expected to enter service in 2026.
Barry Austin, head of the MoD’s Skynet program, said the award builds on Airbus’ long history with the program. “This new … modem will ensure that the Skynet system continues to deliver world-class military satellite communications to frontline commands and our deployed operational personnel worldwide,” he added.
Strategic Communications
Skynet is a constellation of military communications satellites that provide strategic communication services to the U.K. Armed Forces and its allies.
The Skynet 5 satellites are the United Kingdom’s latest generation of military satellites responsible for most of the MoD’s satcom capabilities. Skynet 5, which first launched in 2007, is composed of four satellites that provide X band super high frequency and ultra high frequency communication services. In 2003, Airbus was selected to manufacture the satellites under the Skynet 5 Public Finance Initiative.
For the Skynet 6 program, the ministry is investing $6.3 billion in the next decade to deliver the next generation of the country’s military communication satellites. Defence said the program’s objectives include contributing to the U.K. prosperity agenda for space and ensuring the country has resilient and reliable satcom capability in an increasingly contested environment.
Airbus will also develop the Skynet 6A satellite, the first in the program, which SpaceX will launch in 2026. In addition to the new modems, new terminals are being developed as part of modernization projects for the program’s ground and user segments.