IRIS will replace the Optical Space Component satellites that France uses to gather military intelligence under the Multinational Space-based Imaging System programme. Airbus says the new satellites will deliver sharper images and make them available to French forces faster, while preserving France’s ability to gather imagery independently.
The satellites will use visible and infrared sensors to take extremely high-resolution images of any point on Earth, day or night. They will also be able to photograph objects in space, helping France monitor activity in orbit and assess potential threats.
Airbus Defence and Space will build both satellite platforms, supply much of the first satellite’s imaging payload and lead work on the ground systems. Thales Alenia Space will develop the second satellite’s payload, provide key components for the first and contribute to the ground systems.
“With this contract, Airbus Defence and Space is contributing to France’s sovereignty and strategic autonomy,” said Alain Fauré, head of space systems at Airbus Defence and Space. “In addition, this programme strengthens the French supply chain in space-based optical imagery.”
The existing Multinational Space-based Imaging System programme involves eight European partners. Airbus says IRIS will remain open to international cooperation, allowing allied countries to access the French system.
