Airbus plans the launch of two high-resolution imaging satellites for Poland

European-based Airbus Defence and Space has signed a contract with Poland to develop and launch two optical Earth observation satellites. The contract will cover the development of a Direct Receiving Station in Poland, launch services, training for the Polish team, and maintenance and technical support for the space and ground systems.

The agreement also covers the delivery of very high-resolution imagery from the Airbus Pléiades Neo constellation. The Pléiades Neo constellation has been operating in orbit with two satellites since 2021.

“This contract will provide Poland with one of the world’s most sophisticated satellite Earth observation systems,” said Jean-Marc Nasr, head of Space Systems at Airbus, in a company press release. “It strengthens Europe and gives the Polish nation a truly sovereign space capability. We look forward to further developing our cooperation with Poland under the umbrella of the strategic partnership between France and Poland.”

Following the launch of the satellites from the European Space Centre in Kourou, French Guiana, imagery will be received in Poland.

The satellites' assembly, integration, and tests will be carried out by Airbus in Toulouse, France, and the launch is planned by 2027.

Poland will gain access to Pléiades Neo imagery directly from Airbus sometime this year.