UK military mulling replacements to Skynet 5
The UK Ministry of Defense is developing a new generation of space-based tactical communications for its armed forces to replace its current Skynet 5 system.
London is looking to replace the Skynet 5 constellation after a contract with Airbus Defense and Space ends in 2022, four years later than the original 2018 date.
The multiple-satellite system, upgraded in different phases, provides British Armed Forces and NATO troops with strategic communication services.
The procurement arm of the defense ministry, the Defense Equipment and Support organization, is working on its future beyond line of sight (FBLOS) satellite capability and will submit a business case to defense and treasury officials later this month.
The approval of program's assessment phase can lead to big changes in the way Britain will respond to future demands for satellite and near-space tactical communications systems.
During the assessment phase the UK military will assess a range of new technologies, consider the benefits of greater international cooperation, and seek a balance between the use of civil and military satellite services by its military.
“We continue to consider a range of options for the FBLOS project and aim to submit the initial business case this summer” a UK military spokeswoman said without revealing more details.
In 2003, Airbus was awarded a single, long-term contract to supply and operate satellite, ground terminals and control rooms necessary for the project.
The defense ministry has made it clear that it won’t extend the Airbus deal, and the company should hands over four Airbus-built Skynet 5 spacecraft along with ground terminal and control room hardware when the contract ends in 2022, all in exchange for £1.
According to the UK National Audit Office, Skynet 5 would cost British taxpayers £3.6 billion over the course of the contract.
Airbus, Boeing, Inmarsat, Lockheed Martin, Thales Alenia Space and Serco some of the companies interested in meeting all, or part, of the requirements for operating the upcoming project.
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