Indra to Supply Advanced Space Debris Detection Radar to German Armed Forces for Satellite Protection

Indra to Supply Advanced Space Debris Detection Radar to German Armed Forces for Satellite Protection

(IN BRIEF) Indra has secured a major contract with the German Armed Forces to supply a next-generation space debris detection radar system, enhancing Germany’s ability to protect satellites from collisions with debris and other approaching satellites. The radar, a more advanced version of the S3TSR currently deployed in Spain, will be used by the Luftwaffe and operated remotely by the German Space Command. The system, part of the L-GUARD program, will track objects in low Earth orbit and work alongside other sensors to ensure the safety of space assets. This contract strengthens European technological sovereignty and cooperation in space security.

(PRESS RELEASE) MADRID, 10-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Indra has secured a significant contract with the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), following approval from the German Parliament, to deliver an advanced radar system designed to protect military and civilian satellites in low Earth orbit. This system will help defend satellites from the risk of collisions with uncontrolled space debris and other approaching satellites, which could potentially damage or neutralize them. The contract, which covers the production, integration, and operational deployment of the radar, will significantly enhance Germany’s ability to safeguard its space assets.

The radar system, a next-generation version of the S3TSR surveillance radar currently deployed in Spain, is one of the most advanced space debris detection systems in the world. It will be used by the Luftwaffe, Germany’s air force, and operated remotely by the German Space Command (WRKdoBw) from the Space Situational Awareness Center in Uedem. Indra’s radar system will not only track space debris but also monitor any attempts by other satellites to approach and potentially compromise operational satellites.

Indra, through its German subsidiary, was selected to provide this state-of-the-art radar system based on its radar’s proven performance, modular design, and flexibility. The system is capable of expanding its capabilities as technology evolves. Manuel Ruiz, Indra’s director of Integrated Defence Systems, emphasized the importance of this technology, stating, “This radar is crucial for protecting the space-based assets that provide essential services like communications, transport, and meteorological data. We are proud to collaborate with the Bundeswehr on what will be one of the most sophisticated and far-reaching radars globally, and we deeply appreciate the support of Spain’s CDTI, the Spanish Space Agency, and the Spanish Space Command.”

The space radar system is a key part of Germany’s “L-GUARD” program, designed to enhance space surveillance capabilities. This radar will work in conjunction with other sensors in the country, including a network of telescopes, to track and catalog objects in near-Earth orbits. The data gathered will help identify and track potential threats, ensuring the safety of space missions and preventing collisions.

The contract award is a significant step toward strengthening European cooperation and technological sovereignty in the field of space security. Indra’s radar, part of the EU-SST (European Union Space Surveillance and Tracking Partnership), will contribute to the creation of a catalog of space debris and operational satellites, essential for preventing collisions and ensuring secure access to space for European nations. This technology is vital for safeguarding space missions and terrestrial infrastructure by tracking re-entry and fragmentation trajectories.

About Indra
Indra is a leading Spanish multinational and one of the foremost global defence, air traffic and space companies that, through technology, protects our current way of life and anticipates the needs of the future. Its committed team of experts, its in-depth knowledge of the business and the latest technologies, and its unique innovation and systems integration capabilities make it the trusted technology partner for key operations and digitalization for its customers around the world. Thanks to its leadership in major European programs and projects, as well as its spirit of collaboration and partnership strategy, it drives the industrial and innovative ecosystem in these sectors.

Media Contact:

Antonio Tovar
atovar@indra.es
+34 683 667 916

SOURCE: Indra Group