10/06/2026 | Press release

Accurate situational assessment and real-time target acquisition require modern armed forces to have seamless reconnaissance from space. The Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions joint venture provides a key technological capability for this purpose. State-of-the-art Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites enable high-resolution imagery of the Earth’s surface regardless of weather, time of day, or visibility conditions. Even dense clouds, smoke, or darkness do not limit the availability of the data. 

The focus is on the new generation of ICEYE Gen4 satellites, which Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions will manufacture in Neuss. The technology is based on extensive operational experience in orbit and, thanks to its compact design, offers significant cost advantages over traditional platforms. This makes it possible for the first time to operate one’s own satellite constellations economically and independently.

The key technological features of the Gen4 platform:

• Superior image quality: Utilization of the entire 1.2 GHz spectrum for the transition from pure object detection to precise classification
• Extended field of view: A wide range of angles of incidence from 5° to 50° enables coverage of up to 400 km and high repeat rates
• Compact agility: Miniaturized sensor on a lightweight satellite platform for long exposure times and precise orbit control
• Rapid data availability: Secure transmission in near real-time with high operational readiness
• Integrated solution: Delivery of a complete system including launch, training, and access to the existing ICEYE constellation
  
  

Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions is thus laying the foundation for an independent, scalable, and future-proof reconnaissance capability for modern armed forces.