KONGSBERG and Helsing Advance European Space IST Capability

European defence planners increasingly recognise the need for autonomous space-based intelligence, surveillance and targeting (IST) systems to support operations across land, air and maritime domains. These capabilities are already proving essential in conflict zones, where satellite-derived data enables reliable situational awareness even under adverse weather or contested electromagnetic conditions. In this context, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) and the German defence technology company Helsing have signed a teaming agreement to accelerate the development of a European IST constellation supported by an interconnected communications layer. HENSOLDT, a specialist in advanced sensing technologies, is joining the collaboration to supply its radar, electro-optical and electronic-intelligence sensors.

An Integrated Response to Europe’s Defence Requirements
The initiative responds directly to Europe’s growing need for sovereign space resources capable of supporting deterrence and operational decision-making. Recent geopolitical events have highlighted the value of satellite-based intelligence for strategic planning and targeting. The collaboration aligns with Germany’s defence space ambitions and builds on a long-standing history of cooperation between Norway and Germany in areas such as satellite communications, advanced sensors and aerospace systems.

The planned constellation aims to provide Europe with integrated IST capabilities by 2029. The concept relies on combining satellite platforms, advanced onboard processing and a ground station network to enable the rapid delivery of analysed intelligence. KONGSBERG will contribute its satellite technology, while Helsing will provide AI-driven software designed to process multiple sensor modalities—synthetic aperture radar (SAR), electro-optical (EO) imagery and radio frequency (RF) signals—to deliver fused intelligence products. Helsing already has on-orbit experience with AI algorithms performing real-time data analysis, demonstrating the viability of this approach.

Sensor and Network Integration
HENSOLDT’s contribution includes SAR, EO/IR (electro-optical/infrared) and EW (electronic warfare) sensors, which support intelligence gathering in diverse operational conditions. SAR, for example, provides high-resolution imaging independent of cloud cover or lighting, while EO/IR sensors supply visual and thermal information that can refine object identification and pattern-of-life analysis. When combined with RF sensing and AI-enabled fusion software, the system supports a more complete operational picture.

KONGSBERG Satellite Services (KSAT) will serve as the ground network provider. KSAT operates the world’s largest commercial ground station network, enabling continuous communication with satellites and rapid data downlink. This integration strengthens the end-to-end architecture required for timely image acquisition, processing and distribution.

Isar Aerospace has been selected as the preferred launch partner. Its launch infrastructure at Andøya Space in Norway supports deployment timelines and provides Europe with additional access to space launch capacity.

Toward a Self-Reliant European Space Infrastructure
The agreement includes plans to establish production facilities in Germany to support satellite and sensor manufacturing. Creating local industrial capacity is intended to reduce dependency on external suppliers and strengthen Europe’s ability to maintain, upgrade and expand the constellation over time.

Although the partnership brings together multiple companies, the initiative is defined by its end-to-end approach: satellite development, sensor integration, onboard data processing, ground network operations and European-based launch services. For defence users, this architecture is designed to improve the speed, reliability and resilience of intelligence delivery, addressing both operational needs and strategic autonomy objectives.

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