The UK’s next-generation military communications satellite, Skynet 6A, has reached a critical milestone in its development, according to a news release from Airbus on 20 May 2025.
The satellite, which is being built by Airbus at its Stevenage and Portsmouth facilities, has successfully completed the coupling of its communications and service modules at the National Satellite Test Facility (NSTF) in Harwell, Oxfordshire. This marks the first time a large geostationary communications satellite has been coupled on UK soil.
“This significant development in the programme will allow Airbus to complete final baseline testing at our Stevenage site, followed by environmental testing back at NSTF later this year,” said Ben Bridge, Chairman of Airbus Defence and Space UK.
Skynet 6A is set to dramatically expand the UK Ministry of Defence’s secure communications capacity. Due to enter service in 2027, the satellite offers more than three times the capability of the current Skynet 5 series and is designed to meet evolving defence communication needs through to the 2040s.
The coupling was completed at the NSTF, operated by the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s RAL Space, which has been supporting Airbus in its integration and testing processes. Earlier this year, the NSTF also hosted successful testing of Skynet 6A’s antennas in its electromagnetic compatibility facility.
Barry Austin, Skynet Programme Manager at Defence Digital, praised the milestone: “This marks a significant achievement for the Skynet 6 programme and the UK space sector as a whole. Once operational, Skynet 6A will enhance and be critical to our Armed Forces’ military satellite communications capability and ensure they continue to receive world-class connectivity globally.”
The Skynet programme has provided the UK Armed Forces with sovereign military satellite communications for over 50 years. Skynet 6A continues that legacy while introducing cutting-edge technologies to deliver secure, global, beyond-line-of-sight connectivity.
Sean Stewart, Head of Environmental Test at RAL Space, added: “Welcoming our first customers represents a significant achievement for the NSTF, and we are proud to support Airbus with the integration and testing of Skynet 6A. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of all involved and marks an exciting step for the UK as we prepare to host many more satellites of this scale.”
The satellite will undergo final testing in Stevenage before returning to Harwell for full environmental trials later in 2025.
Skynet? Really? Tempting fate a little.
Skynet family has been around since 69.
I’m well aware, I was making a Terminator joke.
Do these satellites have comnit signit capability aswell
I’ve read of such suggestions.
We probably won’t ever know, rightly.