The project has been commissioned by the Belgian Federal Government and is fully funded by Belgian Defence. Redwire will develop the satellite in partnership with Belgian company Aerospacelab, combining Redwire’s experience in mission assurance with Aerospacelab’s satellite manufacturing capabilities.
The MATTEO mission is designed to enhance Belgium’s ability to monitor, protect and respond to evolving regional and global security challenges. The satellite will be developed within Belgium, supporting the country’s National Defence Industrial Technology Base strategy.
Redwire and Aerospacelab will jointly carry out the development of the spacecraft as part of the programme. The mission will serve as an in-orbit demonstrator aimed at advancing Belgium’s future capabilities in the space domain.
Marc Dielissen, Executive Vice President of Redwire Europe, highlighted the strategic importance of the project for the country’s defence and technological independence. “MATTEO represents a significant advancement for Belgium’s technological sovereignty and national security, and Redwire is honored to be trusted to deliver on a mission of such strategic importance.”
Belgian Defence also emphasized the role of the programme in strengthening national industry and future space capabilities. “This in-orbit demonstrator (IOD) will allow Belgian Defence, in close cooperation with national industry, to benefit from cutting-edge technology for the next steps of its capability development in the Space domain,” said a Belgian Defence spokesperson.
The spokesperson added that the programme reflects broader security challenges and the need for stronger defence capabilities. “We are delighted to rely on a strong and promising partnership, able to strengthen the national Defence Industrial and Technology Base for the space segment. In these times of global tensions and of a new European awareness, it is a strong and univocal signal.”
According to Belgian Defence, the project will contribute directly to strengthening the country’s ability to respond to modern security challenges. “It is necessary to arm ourselves to face the increased challenges in terms of defence, and MATTEO will fully contribute to this necessary shift.”
Redwire’s Belgian facility brings more than five decades of experience in spacecraft development and advanced space technologies. The site has played a key role in several European Space Agency programmes, including the Proba series of spacecraft.
All spacecraft used in ESA’s Proba-1, Proba-2, Proba-V and Proba-3 missions were designed, developed or integrated at the company’s Belgian facility. Redwire is also serving as prime contractor for ESA’s Skimsat mission, a technology demonstrator satellite designed to operate in Very Low Earth Orbit.
Redwire Corporation is an integrated aerospace and defence company focused on advanced technologies supporting aerospace infrastructure, autonomous systems and multi-domain operations. The company employs approximately 1,400 people across Europe and North America and develops space and airborne platforms for a range of defence and commercial missions.
