ICEYE , a global leader in SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite operations, and the Portuguese Air Force (FAP) have announced the signing and enactment of a contract for the direct acquisition of a SAR satellite.
For the first time, FAP has directly acquired a satellite, marking a significant milestone in Portugal’s native ISR defense capabilities from space.
Under the agreement, ICEYE will provide the FAP with a state-of-the-art SAR satellite. ICEYE’s SAR technology offers unique advantages, including weather-independent, day-night imaging, and rapid revisit rates, ensuring persistent and reliable monitoring regardless of environmental conditions.
Sovereign Advanced Capabilities for Portugal
This acquisition will provide the FAP with advanced capabilities for persistent surveillance, situational awareness, and national security. It supports Portugal’s broader ambitions for space and defense modernization.
The direct ownership of the satellite will give the FAP full control and flexibility over data acquisition and mission planning, enabling a quick response to military missions, maritime security challenges, environmental monitoring, and safeguarding national interests, including the protection of Portugal’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and natural resources.
This purchase marks the FAP’s first solely owned satellite and the second to be managed by the Air Force; in fact, the first was acquired last June when CTI Aeroespacial–a Portuguese technology and innovation center–signed an agreement with ICEYE for the purchase of a SAR satellite to be managed by the FAP.
Source and photo credit @ICEYE
