Skynet 6 satellite programme
UK (operation); Space (satellites) · 2020 (contract for Skynet 6A) - 2042 (communications capabilities out to) · £500 million (sole-source contract for Skynet 6A build and launch); part of a larger programme to replace Skynet 5 PFI service.
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchSkynet 6 is the UK's largest space project, demonstrating a significant commitment to sovereign military satellite communications. - The programme aims for a flexible system architecture, combining various satellite types for enhanced resilience and capability. - The sole-source contract for Skynet 6A highlights the specialized nature of military satellite development.
Key engineering challenges
Developing and deploying next-generation military SATCOM capabilities to meet evolving defence needs. - Ensuring high levels of security, resilience, and anti-jamming capabilities for military communications. - Integrating new space assets with existing infrastructure and allied systems. - Exploiting technological advances to deliver enhanced communication services to deployed forces.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- UK Ministry of Defence
- Lead contractor
- Airbus Defence and Space
- Lead designers
- Airbus Defence and Space
- Project type
- new build
- Scale
- Skynet 6A satellite (three-and-a-half times the capacity of Skynet 5 satellites); flexible system architecture combining UK government, allied, and commercial satellites.
- Disciplines
- Satellite engineering; telecommunications; space systems engineering; ground segment engineering; cyber security
- Standards & frameworks
- Military satellite communication standards; UK defence standards.
Sources: GOV.UK: SKYNET 6 (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/skynet-6) - Airbus: Airbus next-generation Skynet satellite reaches major milestone (https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2025-05-airbus-next-generation-skynet-satellite-reaches-major-milestone) - Wikipedia: Skynet (satellite) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skynet_(satellite)) - Defence Digital Blog: Securing the Future: SKYNET 6 WSS Hits a Landmark Milestone (https://defencedigital.blog.gov.uk/2025/08/20/securing-the-future-skynet-6-wss-hits-a-landmark-milestone/)