The UK Ministry of Defence’s SKYNET satellite communication (SATCOM) system has reached a significant milestone with the successful completion of initial testing for its latest satellite, SKYNET 6A. The satellite, designed to provide secure and reliable communications for UK and allied forces worldwide, is a key part of the SKYNET 6 programme, the largest government investment in the UK space industry to date.
SKYNET 6A underwent its first phase of testing at the National Satellite Test Facility (NSTF) in Harwell, Oxfordshire, a state-of-the-art facility funded by the UK government. The satellite incorporates advanced digital processing and radio frequency spectrum technologies, offering greater capacity and flexibility compared to earlier SKYNET models.
The testing process is a collaborative effort involving Airbus Defence and Space UK, the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s (STFC) RAL Space, and other industry partners. Further tests will be conducted this year to ensure the satellite’s long-term reliability and functionality before its planned launch in 2026.
Jason Gnaneswaran, senior responsible owner for SKYNET 6, highlighted the importance of the milestone: “The SKYNET 6 programme ensures our forces have world-leading communication capabilities, whether on land, at sea, or in the air. This achievement underscores the success of our collaboration with industry and government partners and marks a crucial step in delivering SKYNET 6A.”
Once operational, SKYNET 6A will be the first UK military communications satellite entirely designed, built, and tested in the country. It is expected to provide secure communications for at least 15 years, supporting a wide range of military operations across all domains.
The project is also a major boost for the UK space industry, sustaining 550 highly skilled jobs in locations such as Stevenage, Corsham, and Portsmouth. The NSTF at Harwell, home to over 100 space organisations, is expected to attract further investment and businesses, reinforcing the UK’s position as a global leader in space technology.
Dr Barbara Ghinelli, director for the STFC’s innovation clusters and Harwell Campus, emphasised the broader impact of the project: “By supporting initiatives like SKYNET 6A, we are accelerating the UK’s progress in space commercialisation and strengthening our innovation hubs. Our facilities and expertise enable businesses across the country to thrive, particularly in dual-use applications like defence and security.”
The SKYNET programme remains a cornerstone of the UK’s military satellite communications infrastructure, ensuring that armed forces remain connected and informed in all operational environments. The successful testing of SKYNET 6A marks a significant step forward in the UK’s space capabilities and its commitment to maintaining a strategic advantage in global communications.
