The newly formed company is based in Neuss, with Rheinmetall holding a 60% majority stake and ICEYE Oy owning the remaining 40%. Operations are set to begin in 2025, with the first satellite to be manufactured locally the following year.
“With Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions GmbH, we are further expanding our capabilities in the field of space-based reconnaissance,” said Armin Papperger. “The joint venture is an important step towards providing our customers with cutting-edge solutions for security and defence.”
Rafał Modrzewski stated: “The joint venture enables us to provide SAR satellite-based reconnaissance solutions that meet the growing demand of governments for sovereign space-based capabilities.” He added: “With Rheinmetall, we have a strong and reliable partner at our side.”
SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellites offer strategic advantages over optical systems by capturing high-resolution images regardless of weather conditions or time of day. As part of the ongoing collaboration, SAR satellites are already delivering reconnaissance imagery in support of Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression.
In response to rising global demand for satellite reconnaissance, Rheinmetall recently shifted parts of its Power Systems division in the Lower Rhine region to its military sector. The Neuss facility is expected to benefit from this transition, offering new opportunities for local staff.
The establishment of Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions marks a significant move in Rheinmetall’s strategy to strengthen its role in the space sector and support defence and security innovation worldwide.
