SKYNET program 6, which works closely with industry to leverage technological advances to create the next generation of military communications satellites, reached an important milestone with the completion of initial trials at the new National Research Center (NSTF), funded by the UK government, in Harwell, Oxfordshire.
SKYNET is satellite communication (SATCOM) Ministry of Defense of Great Britain. It supports operations to deliver information to UK and allied forces around the world, providing an information advantage on the battlefield anywhere, anytime. Representing the UK's largest public investment in space, SKYNET 6 emphasizes the country's desire to develop its space potential and is a program, co-sponsored by the UK Strategic Command and UK Space Command.
The first of the SKYNET assets 6, 6A, reached a milestone with the completion of the initial phase of testing at the new National Satellite Test Center (NSTF), funded by the UK government, in Harwell, Oxfordshire. The satellite will use the latest developments in digital processing and the use of the radio frequency spectrum, offering greater capacity and versatility, than previous generations.
Further testing of the completed SKYNET 6A satellite will be conducted at the facility this year, а Airbus Defence, Space UK and the RAL Space laboratory from the Science and Technology Council (STFC) will cooperate closely, to guarantee the long-term functionality and reliability of the satellite after its launch into orbit.
The launch of this advanced satellite, scheduled for 2026 year. It will be the first military SKYNET communications satellite, fully developed, built and tested in Great Britain, which will be a significant advance for the country's space industry. It will be an important asset to the armed forces of Great Britain and allies, which will provide safe and reliable communication for at least 15 years to support military operations in all operational areas.
This project directly supports 550 highly qualified jobs across the country, including Stevenage, Corsham and Portsmouth. While the Harwell Campus is already home to over 100 local and international space organizations, is expected, that the NSTF itself will attract new business and investment to the UK space sector, further strengthening the country's position as a leader in space technology.
SKYNET continues to play an important role in the UK's military satellite communications infrastructure, supporting the integration of all forces, which provides communications and information for the armed forces, wherever they operate.
Source: https://www.adsadvance.co.uk/military-satellite-skynet-6a-passes-initial-phase-of-testing.html