German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius warns of delays to 10‑billion‑euro satellite project

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius warned that postponements in the planned 10‑billion‑euro military satellite programme are unacceptable given current security threats. Speaking during a visit to satellite manufacturer OHB in Bremen, he stressed the need for strict timetable and budget discipline as the Bundeswehr prepares to award contracts for the SATCOMBw4 system by the end of 2026.

The satellite constellation, expected to comprise about 200 units with an initial fleet of roughly 40 to become operational from 2029, will provide sovereign space‑based communications for the German armed forces, supporting early warning, reconnaissance and command‑and‑control capabilities. OHB will collaborate with Rheinmetall and Airbus Defence. Pistorius also highlighted Germany’s broader commitment to invest €35 billion in space security by 2030, warning that counter‑space threats are already a reality.