Hisdesat, Airbus and Thales Alenia Space to Build SpainSat NG III Satellite

Hisdesat has signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space and Thales Alenia Space to develop the SpainSat NG III, a secure communications satellite that will extend Spain’s strategic autonomy in defence and government communications. The 48‑month programme targets a launch in the third quarter of 2030, with service expected to begin in early 2031, complementing the existing SpainSat NG I to complete the SPAINSAT NG architecture.

The satellite will operate in the X, Ka‑military and UHF bands, offering enhanced flexibility, capacity and resistance to electronic interference. Its coverage will span from the United States and South America through Europe, Africa and the Middle East to Singapore, linking a network of Spanish and European firms that will supply critical payloads and create high‑skill jobs.

The Spanish government is accelerating a direct loan to Hisdesat, formalised by a real decree in 2026, to replace the damaged SpainSat NG II and ensure uninterrupted secure communications for the armed forces, government and allied users. The financing is part of the 2025 Industrial and Technological Plan for Security and Defence, underscoring the programme’s role in modernising national space capabilities.