Space reconnaissance agreement signed by ICEYE and Rheinmetall
NewsDecember 18, 2025
HELSINKI. International satellite operator ICEYE has partnered with Rheinmetall to supply Germany's armed forces with space-based reconnaissance data that has exclusive access to a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellation.
An announcement by ICEYE states that the newly formed entity "Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions" will provide a high volume of SAR images to Germany's Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) via its exclusive constellation. The partnership -- which will handle operations, ground-station management, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven image evaluation -- will maintain ownership of the satellite constellation.
The current contract is valued at approximately 1.7 billion euros ($1.99 billion) gross, with an option for extension.
ICEYE notes that the space-based reconnaissance data will be used primarily to protect the so-called Lithuania Brigade, German's permanently stationed force in Lithuania, and to secure NATO's eastern flank.
