This mission marks a historic milestone for the Spanish space industry. Weighing 6.1 tons and standing 7.2 metres tall, SpainSat NG I is the largest and most complex satellite ever developed in Spain. Notably, 45% of the satellite’s components were manufactured by Spanish companies, reflecting unprecedented national collaboration.
Following five years of development, the satellite has completed its journey to Cape Canaveral to undergo final launch preparations. If successful, SpainSat NG I will enter orbit in the early hours of January 29 in Europe.
SpainSat NG I is recognised as Europe’s most advanced secure communications satellite. It will provide critical services to the Spanish Armed Forces, NATO, the European Commission through the GOVSATCOM programme, and allied governments. Full operational capability is expected by the second half of 2025.
The satellite project is a result of a public-private partnership between Hisdesat and the Spanish Ministry of Defence. Additional support has come from the Ministry of Industry, the European Space Agency under its Pacis 3 programme, and the recently established Spanish Space Agency.
