UK armed forces expand capabilities with Juno satellite

UK armed forces will have access to new Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities following a contract for a satellite named Juno.

The £40 million project is being spearheaded by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL). The initiative promises to support approximately 200 skilled jobs, providing a welcome boost to the UK’s space sector and contributing to economic growth.

Juno is expected to launch in 2027 and will be equipped with state-of-the-art imaging sensors capable of capturing detailed daytime images of the Earth’s surface. Juno builds on the success of Tyche, UK Space Command’s first satellite, which lifted off in August this year.

Both Tyche and Juno are part of the Ministry of Defence’s sophisticated space-based ISR programme. This initiative aims to deliver a constellation of satellites, complete with supporting ground systems, by 2031.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton commented: “With Tyche in space, and Juno now on contract, UK Space Command’s ISTARI programme is making great strides, showcasing innovation and collaboration across government and industry.

“With these Earth Observation satellites on orbit, UK Space Command and defence will be better equipped to conduct all-domain military operations and deliver assured space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to the joint force and our allies.”

Paul Russell, Space Team Leader at Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), added: “Placing contracts and managing delivery of a new generation of UK military capabilities for use in a complex and critical environment takes incredible focus and collaborative working with our defence and industry partners. 

“These efforts are key in ensuring the UK armed forces have access to the surveillance and intelligence information they need to maintain a competitive edge.”

These satellites are expected to enhance military operations by tracking adversary activities. They will also play crucial roles in broader governmental tasks such as monitoring natural disasters, developing comprehensive mapping information, conducting environmental assessments, and tracking global climate change impacts.

Maria Eagle, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, said: “The contract for Juno shows the UK’s commitment to grow one of the most innovative and attractive space economies in the world and keep our competitive edge in space science and technology.

“Juno will not only support armed forces personnel deployed globally, but also support highly skilled jobs—delivering on the government’s growth mission.”

With operations spanning two sites in Guildford, Surrey, and Bordon, Hampshire, SSTL employs around 400 engineers, technicians, and support staff. About half of these will focus on the Juno satellite project, underscoring its vital role in maintaining critical UK space industry expertise. Furthermore, the project aims to inform future procurement strategies for space capability requirements.

Andrew Cawthorne, Managing Director of SSTL, commented: “We’re incredibly proud that the Ministry of Defence has again placed its trust in SSTL to deliver the UK’s next sovereign intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance spacecraft.

“Juno will offer a step change in imaging capability over Tyche, SSTL’s demonstrator spacecraft which launched in August and is now being operated for UK Space Command. We look forward to continuing our successful relationship with UK Space Command, DE&S, and Dstl, and playing a leading role in delivering the UK Defence Space Strategy.”

See also: NATO funds satellite backup for subsea internet cables

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Tags: defence, juno, military, satellites, space, space command, uk