Space42, ICEYE Join Hands to Manufacture SAR Satellites in UAE

Space42, a UAE-based AI-powered space tech company, and ICEYE, a global leader in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations, have announced a joint venture to manufacture SAR satellites in the UAE. 

The partnership aims to meet the increasing demand for high-resolution SAR satellite imagery and bolster the UAE’s Earth Observation (EO) capabilities.

The collaboration builds on the successful launch of Foresight-1, the UAE’s first SAR satellite, in August 2024. The new venture will focus on satellite production, deploying SAR missions, and supporting the UAE’s EO Program, which seeks to enhance national remote sensing and EO capabilities.

Space42’s Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) and low-Earth orbit (LEO) mission operations facilities in Abu Dhabi will serve as the hub for the joint venture’s activities, as mentioned on the official blog.

The initiative will also act as a platform for technology transfer and localisation, fostering the UAE’s space R&D capabilities and encouraging the development of sovereign SAR payloads.

“The joint venture is a continuation of our strategic partnership with ICEYE to advance Earth Observation capabilities,” said Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Bayanat Smart Solutions, Space42. 

“It aligns with our goal of unlocking the full potential of space technologies and supports the UAE’s ambitions by localising SAR manufacturing, placing the nation at the forefront of global space advancements.”

The partnership also aims to localise the supply chain, sourcing components and services from UAE-based industries. Emirati talent will play a significant role in furthering Emiratisation goals and contributing to national innovation and economic growth.

Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE, stated, “This venture will bring efficiency in deploying SAR constellations, leveraging the combined expertise of Space42 and ICEYE.” 

“Extending our production line to the UAE enhances our technology’s global reach while supporting the country’s growing space programme and capabilities.”

This joint initiative is the latest in a series of collaborations between Space42 and ICEYE, including the ongoing development of the UAE’s SAR constellation, set to expand over the next three years.