Space42 and ICEYE partner to manufacture SAR satellites in UAE

Space42 and ICEYE partner to manufacture SAR satellites in UAE
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Dec 10, 2024
Space42 (ADX: SPACE42), a leading UAE-based AI-driven SpaceTech firm, and ICEYE, a global authority in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations, have announced a joint venture to produce SAR satellites in the UAE. This partnership builds on their collaboration, highlighted by the successful launch of the UAE's first SAR satellite, Foresight-1, in August 2024.

The joint venture focuses on satellite production and SAR mission deployment to support the UAE's Earth Observation (EO) Program. This program seeks to enhance national remote sensing capabilities and address the rising demand for high-resolution SAR imagery, which is essential for various applications.

The partnership will utilize Space42's state-of-the-art Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mission operations facilities in Abu Dhabi. This initiative aims to establish a local SAR ecosystem, encompassing manufacturing operations and constellation management services. Additionally, the venture will facilitate technology transfer and knowledge sharing, fostering the development of future UAE-made SAR payloads.

Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Bayanat Smart Solutions, Space42, remarked, "The joint venture is a continuation of our ongoing strategic partnership with ICEYE to advance Earth Observation capabilities. It will directly support Space42's commitment to unlocking the full potential of space and ground systems capabilities, ultimately adding customer value through AI-enabled solutions. It also supports the UAE's space ambitions by bringing SAR manufacturing to the region, positioning the nation at the forefront of advancing space technology globally."

The collaboration will enhance the UAE's industrial ecosystem by localizing the supply chain and leveraging contributions from existing domestic industries. It aims to cultivate a robust local knowledge base in SAR technology while involving Emirati talent to support national R and D and economic growth efforts. The project aligns with Emiratization goals by creating new opportunities for UAE citizens to drive innovation.

Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE, stated, "This joint venture is expected to bring efficiency in deploying, managing and operating SAR constellations as Space42 and ICEYE join forces to address the market in a coordinated approach. We are proud to see our satellite production line extended to manufacture the state-of-the-art SAR technologies in the UAE through our partnership with Space42, enhancing the global reach and positive impact of ICEYE's technology. We are excited to grow ICEYE's local footprint and look forward to accelerating the UAE space program and the local space and SAR capabilities by harnessing the most of both companies' expertise for the benefit of the people of the UAE."

This initiative marks a continuation of strategic partnerships between Space42 and ICEYE, including the recent launch of Foresight-1, part of the UAE's expanding SAR constellation set to grow further over the next three years.