Special Report: Sovereign capability in focus as Skynet procurement approaches

A concept graphic of a Skynet satellite. (Airbus)

Airbus Defence and Space has told Janes that it could ensure sovereign UK military satellite communications (milsatcom) capability with the building of up to three UK Skynet Enduring Capability Wideband Satellite System (SKEC WSS) spacecraft, should it win the contract.

Launched on 31 May 2023 the future Skynet procurement, with GBP5 billion (USD6.4 billion) announced for it in the UK's National Space Strategy published in September 2021, includes up to three SKEC WSS and one SKEC Narrowband Satellite System (NSS) spacecraft, all intended for geostationary orbit (GEO).

Requirements

Scheduled to replace the UK's existing Skynet 5 satellites between 2028 and 2036, the SKEC WSS requirement is for the design and manufacture of up to three high-availability, military-hardened GEO satellites incorporating X-band and Mil-Ka-band milsatcom payloads, their associated ground equipment, and launch operations. A secure Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) capability operating in the X-, Mil-Ka-, and S-bands is required, along with intersatellite communication links that enable payload traffic and TT&C transmissions. The satellites must have a minimum life expectancy of 15 years.

In addition to the satellites, the winning bidder will be required to design and manufacture the necessary ‘Wideband Satellite (WS) Ground System' including satellite and payload monitoring and control systems; ground components of the TT&C system; simulators for training and mission rehearsal purposes; and the provision of Post Design Support (PDS) for the entire WSS life cycle.

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) told Janes