Under the deal, ICEYE will deliver four SAR satellites with 25cm resolution, alongside a local ground segment and antenna, as well as a mobile ground unit featuring an AI-driven imagery intelligence hub. The contract also includes access to satellite data from ICEYE’s existing constellation, enhancing the RNLAF’s real-time observation capabilities.
The project represents the first operational Dutch military satellite mission and was completed at record pace, with the first component delivered just four months after contract signing. ICEYE’s rapid delivery demonstrates its unique ability to provide sovereign ISR solutions within compressed timelines.
By selecting ICEYE, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence and the RNLAF have accelerated the execution of their defence and space strategies, focused on achieving independent ISR capability. ICEYE will also expand its collaboration with the Dutch space and defence sector, supporting local high-tech industry and regional innovation.
“This agreement is a step in European rearmament efforts for securing the defense of European nations,” said Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE. “ICEYE is proud to provide the Netherlands with a sovereign and independent satellite ISR capability with the country’s first operational military satellite mission.”
“By delivering this system at an unprecedented speed, ICEYE is ensuring that the Netherlands has access to objective, reliable, and actionable intelligence,” Modrzewski added. “As a European provider, ICEYE is ideally positioned to provide European nations with a common and capable asset for space-based ISR activities.”
Lieutenant General André Steur, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, welcomed the agreement, saying: “We are pleased to partner with ICEYE to develop the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s space-based defense capabilities.” He emphasised: “This collaboration positions the Netherlands at the forefront of European countries investing in this cutting-edge technology.”
“This recognises the critical role of the space domain in national defence and underscores the Netherlands’ commitment to securing its interests in this vital new frontier of defence,” Steur concluded. The ICEYE system also allows for shared tasking and cooperation with allied nations, supporting broader European and transatlantic space defence objectives.
