Germany plans 1,200‑satellite military network by 2030

The German defence ministry announced a programme to launch up to 1,200 low‑Earth‑orbit satellites for communications and persistent reconnaissance. The effort, dubbed SATCOMBw Stufe 4 and the Spock 2 system, would give the Bundeswehr a sovereign satellite constellation second only to SpaceX’s Starlink.

The project targets a fleet of about 200 communication satellites and up to 1,000 radar‑and‑camera satellites, with the goal of providing secure, low‑latency links and continuous battlefield tracking. Funding of roughly €35 billion is earmarked through 2030, and operating costs are estimated at about €1 billion per year as the short‑life LEO satellites will need frequent replacement – potentially two to three launches each week.

A joint venture involving Airbus Defence and Space, OHB, Rheinmetall and other industry partners will develop, build and operate the system. A final decision is expected within two years, with the first launches possibly three years thereafter, aiming for full capability by the end of the decade.