Spain Boosts Earth Observation with Advanced PAZ-2 Satellites

Airbus to Lead Development of Next-Gen Radar Satellites for Enhanced National Security and Civilian Use

Spain is set to significantly upgrade its Earth observation capabilities with the development of two new PAZ-2 radar satellites. This initiative, led by Hisdesat for the Ministry of Defence, ensures the continuity of the current PAZ satellite, operational since 2018.

Major Leap in Satellite Technology

The upcoming PAZ-2 satellites promise a substantial enhancement in performance, offering superior image quality with a resolution better than 25 centimeters. They will also expand daily coverage to an impressive 6.7 million square kilometers per satellite. Orbiting Earth 16 times each day, these advanced systems will bolster the intelligence and surveillance assets of the Spanish Armed Forces.

Industry Dominance and Technological Sovereignty

A cornerstone of this ambitious program is the significant contribution of Spanish industry, which is slated to develop approximately 65% of the satellites’ components. Airbus Defence and Space will spearhead this effort, leading a consortium of over 15 Spanish companies. The company will be responsible for the design, assembly, and testing of the two satellites at its Getafe facility.

“In the current geopolitical context, with the PAZ-2 satellites, Airbus reaffirms its commitment to strengthening technological sovereignty in security and defence, as well as its leadership in the national and European space sector.”

—Alain Fauré, Head of Airbus Space Systems

Advancing Civilian and Security Applications

Beyond defense applications, the PAZ-2 satellites will provide crucial data for civilian sectors. These include infrastructure monitoring, risk management, border control, and disaster assessment, thanks to their ability to capture radar imagery around the clock, irrespective of weather conditions.

Spain’s investment in the PAZ-2 program aligns with a broader European trend of enhancing independent Earth observation capabilities. For instance, the European Space Agency’s Copernicus program, with its Sentinel satellites, provides vital data for environmental monitoring and climate change research, demonstrating the growing importance of satellite technology for global challenges.

Future Outlook and Strategic Partnerships

The first of the PAZ-2 satellites is anticipated to be operational by mid-2031. Through this significant contract, Hisdesat and Airbus will continue their collaboration in providing high-end X-band radar services, reinforcing Spain’s Earth observation infrastructure and contributing to Europe’s overall resilience.

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