Skynet 5 satellite programme
UK (operation); France (launch) · 2007 (first launch) - 2022 (PFI programme ended)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchSkynet 5 was delivered under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) model, a significant approach for defence procurement. - The programme provided assured satellite communications for the UK military and allies for over a decade. - The success of Skynet 5 led to the development of its successor, Skynet 6.
Key engineering challenges
Designing and building highly secure and resilient military communication satellites. - Ensuring global coverage and continuous service for deployed forces. - Managing the complex ground infrastructure for telemetry, tracking, and command.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- UK Ministry of Defence
- Lead contractor
- Paradigm Secure Communications (now Airbus Defence and Space)
- Lead designers
- Airbus Defence and Space
- Project type
- new build
- Scale
- Four Skynet 5 satellites (5A, 5B, 5C, 5D); provides secure military satellite communications.
- Disciplines
- Satellite engineering; telecommunications; space systems engineering; ground segment engineering
- Standards & frameworks
- Military satellite communication standards.
Sources: Wikipedia: Skynet (satellite) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skynet_(satellite)) - Airbus: Skynet | Military Satellite Communications (https://www.airbus.com/en/products-services/defence/military-space/skynet) - Gunter's Space Page: Skynet 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D (https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/skynet-5.htm)