: Establishing a "sovereign military SATCOM bedrock" to operate in contested environments where jamming or interference is a risk. "Own, Collaborate, Access" (OCA) Approach
. It is based on the Eurostar Neo platform and is scheduled for launch via Service Delivery Wrap (SDW) : A support contract (awarded to
The original plan for Skynet 6A was a launch in 2028. In 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the demonstrated vulnerability of commercial satellite networks (the Viasat cyberattack that disabled modems in Ukraine), the MOD accelerated the programme. skynet 6 programme
In conclusion, the Skynet 6 programme represents a critical component of the UK's defence strategy, providing a secure, resilient, and flexible communication network for the country's armed forces. As the programme continues to evolve, it is likely to play a vital role in supporting the UK's military operations and ensuring the country's national security.
Unlike traditional “bent-pipe” satellites, Skynet 6 introduces . This offers several strategic advantages: : Establishing a "sovereign military SATCOM bedrock" to
The Skynet 6 programme is a cornerstone of the UK’s and the Integrated Review . It directly supports:
: Initial investment and development phase began under Airbus. In 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine
The Skynet 6 programme is a flagship for the UK’s . It sustains approximately 1,500 high-value engineering jobs across the UK.