Finnish companies ICEYE and Nokia are partnering to develop low Earth orbit satellite communications networks for governments and defense customers, with the first satellites expected to launch in 2028.
The project will combine communications satellites, ground infrastructure, and ruggedized user terminals into systems that customer nations can own and operate.
National ownership would extend across the network, giving governments control of the satellites, the infrastructure used to manage them, and the terminals through which users connect.
According to the companies, the model would allow countries to operate their communications systems without depending on a foreign commercial operator’s service terms.
The partnership combines ICEYE’s experience delivering satellite systems to national customers with Nokia’s secure networking technology.
It also extends ICEYE’s business from supplying synthetic aperture radar satellites, which collect imagery day or night and through cloud cover, into satellite communications.
Connectivity for Military and Civilian Missions
Under the partnership, the planned communications satellites would provide the capability of carrying data between users and networks.
The networks are designed to deliver broadband connectivity over priority mission areas, with high data capacity and short transmission delays.
They are intended for both military and civilian missions, including defense operations, border security, emergency services, and disaster response.
They would supplement existing military and commercial networks, expanding coverage and providing additional capacity.
A central aim is to maintain access to information and command systems when terrestrial networks are damaged, disrupted, or compromised.
For armed forces, first responders, and civil authorities, satellite links could provide another way to communicate where ground infrastructure is unavailable.