ICEYE, renowned for its expertise in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite operations, has revealed its collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and Greece’s Ministry of Digital Governance. This initiative is a key component of the Greek National Satellite Space Project, Axis 1.2, focused on delivering radar imaging capabilities and establishing a Greek Observation System utilising SAR satellites.
Axis 1.2 Overview
The initiative will provide Greece with two ICEYE SAR satellites, enhancing the nation’s ability to monitor key areas of interest more efficiently. Alongside these newly deployed satellites, Greece will also benefit from access to ICEYE’s extensive SAR satellite constellation, which is currently the largest globally. This collaboration will allow Greece to enhance its natural catastrophe detection and maritime awareness capabilities.
Fast Delivery and Immediate Access
The delivery of ICEYE SAR imagery to the Government of Greece will begin immediately, offering quick access to critical data. The rapid production capabilities of ICEYE and its booked launch schedule will ensure that the satellites are delivered promptly. The data will support Greece in managing national observability for safety, security, and disaster response, including monitoring flooding, wildfires, and maritime operations.
Strengthening Greece’s Space Industry
ICEYE intends to establish a new facility in Greece for satellite assembly, aiming to support and accelerate the development of the country’s space industry. This initiative aligns with Greece’s broader ambitions to build its space capabilities and establish a stronger presence in the global space industry. By collaborating with the Greek Space Agency, ICEYE aims to accelerate this growth.
Statements from Key Officials
Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE, expressed pride in contributing to the Greek space program. He highlighted the unique ability of ICEYE to offer SAR capabilities that include both satellite delivery and data services.
Greek Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, emphasized the significance of the collaboration in enhancing Greece’s disaster management and national security capabilities. He noted that ICEYE’s SAR satellites will provide valuable insights for managing natural disasters like floods.
Deputy Minister of Digital Governance, Konstantinos Kyranakis, highlighted the improvement in monitoring and protecting key areas of interest under the partnership. He stated that the agreement marks a key step forward for Greece’s space program, driving innovation within the country’s space sector.
Secretary General of Telecommunications and Posts, Prof. Konstantinos Karantzalos, acknowledged the importance of the ambitious satellite program designed to enhance Greece’s remote sensing and surveillance capabilities.
ESA’s Support and Endorsement
Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at ESA, affirmed ESA’s support for the Greek National Satellite Space Project. She praised the collaboration for demonstrating the benefits of space technologies in providing critical information on Earth, particularly through ICEYE’s X-Band SAR observation capability.
Collaboration
This collaboration between ICEYE, the Greek government, and ESA represents a significant milestone for Greece’s space program. By harnessing advanced SAR satellite technology, Greece will gain the ability to monitor its territory more effectively, improve disaster response, and build a robust national space industry.
Disclaimer
The views expressed in this press release reflect those of the author(s) only. Neither the European Union, European Commission, European Space Agency, nor the Greek Ministry of Digital Governance can be held responsible for any use of the information contained herein.
