Space agreement between Airbus, Thales and Radmor. implications for security and the maritime sector

As part of the Polish-French Friendship Day celebrations, a trilateral industrial cooperation agreement was signed between Airbus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space, and the Polish company Radmor. The objective of this partnership is the development of a geostationary telecommunications satellite for the Polish Ministry of National Defence. While the initiative has a clear political and military dimension, its implications extend far beyond — encompassing the maritime sector, logistics, critical infrastructure protection, and the advancement of dual-use technologies.

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21 april 2026   |   11:59   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

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New chapter in European space cooperation

The agreement was signed in the presence of the highest-ranking officials of Poland and France, underscoring its strategic importance. The project aligns with a broader European effort to strengthen strategic autonomy in security and critical infrastructure, particularly in satellite communications.

- We are opening a new chapter in European space cooperation - on a scale that will enable the delivery of a reliable system for the Polish Armed Forces. Radmor, as part of WB Group, is proud to stand among world-class partners, contributing its expertise and many years of experience in providing secure, resilient, and mission-critical satellite communication capabilities - said Bartłomiej Zając, CEO of Radmor.

The project envisions the development of a comprehensive satellite system, including both the space segment and ground infrastructure. Crucially, this goes beyond the satellite platform itself, encompassing mission control systems, data transmission architecture, and advanced cybersecurity solutions.

Geostationary advantage: stability and operational continuity

The planned satellite will operate in geostationary orbit, approximately 36,000 kilometers above Earth, maintaining a fixed position relative to the ground. This enables uninterrupted, real-time communication - a critical requirement for modern military operations.

In practical terms, this translates into:

• continuous communication support for land, air, and maritime operations,
• independence from commercial satellite operators,
• enhanced resilience against electromagnetic interference and cyber threats,
• operational capability in high-intensity conflict environments.

Strategic relevance for the maritime domain

From a maritime perspective, the project carries particular importance. Advanced satellite communications are now a cornerstone of both naval operations and the broader maritime economy.

For maritime operations, this capability enables:

• secure communication for naval units operating in the Baltic Sea and beyond,
• integration of fleet command systems with NATO structures,
• support for surveillance, patrol, and critical infrastructure protection (including LNG terminals, ports, and subsea cables),
• enhanced maritime safety in crisis and emergency scenarios.

In the context of growing hybrid threats in the Baltic region - including sabotage of energy infrastructure and incidents involving unmanned systems - resilient and sovereign satellite communication is becoming a critical component of national security.

Industrial cooperation and technology transfer

The agreement also has a strong industrial dimension. Cooperation with global leaders in the space sector opens new pathways for the development of Poland’s domestic capabilities.

- This partnership is the essence of European cooperation. Working across borders to drive innovation and industrial competitiveness ultimately enhances global connectivity and security. It is also another chapter in Airbus’ long-standing partnership with the Polish Armed Forces and industry - stated Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus Defence and Space.

For Radmor, traditionally recognized for advanced military radio systems, this marks a strategic expansion into the space sector — a move that could significantly strengthen Poland’s position in the space technology ecosystem.

- The decision to expand Radmor’s activities into the space sector is a natural evolution of our competencies, encompassing both an extended frequency range and a broader communications portfolio. Today’s operational environment is deeply integrated with space-based infrastructure, and developing satellite communication capabilities ensures coherence, security, and resilience across all operational domains - added Bartłomiej Zając.

Built for a contested environment

A defining feature of the project is its resilience against modern threats. The system will be secured across both ground and orbital segments, integrating advanced cybersecurity and anti-interference technologies.

- This geostationary satellite project will embody the highest standards of resilience, cybersecurity, and anti-jamming technologies, reflecting our commitment to strengthening European defense sovereignty. Together with Airbus Defence and Space and Radmor, we will provide the Polish Armed Forces with a robust, end-to-end solution tailored to today’s complex security environment - said Hervé Derrey, CEO of Thales Alenia Space.

Long-term strategic outlook

A geostationary satellite program is inherently a long-term investment, requiring substantial financial and technological resources. At the same time, it lays the foundation for the future development of Poland’s space capabilities and deeper integration into the European security framework.

For the maritime sector, this signals the beginning of a new era — one in which maritime security is no longer defined solely by fleets and port infrastructure, but increasingly by access to and control over space-based assets.

In an era of intensifying geopolitical competition and increasingly complex threats, investment in satellite technologies is no longer optional — it is essential. By engaging in this project alongside experienced partners, Poland is taking a significant step toward strengthening its technological and operational sovereignty.

Is multidomain approach the future of Poland’s critical infrastructure protection?

The Airbus–Thales–Radmor space agreement is not merely a military project. It sends a clear signal to the entire maritime economy sector that the future of maritime security and logistics will increasingly depend on space-based infrastructure. The integration of these two domains — maritime and space — is set to become one of the key trends of the coming decades.

- Poland is a partner for France that ensures the joint development of the European security architecture. Of particular importance are satellite capabilities and space operations. France is a leader in this field, and we have been cooperating with it for years. Equally important is the development of the Polish defense industry and its offer for the French side. One of the topics of our talks is joint exercises. Recently, drills involving Polish Armed Forces in France have concluded. This summer, the French will train in Poland. The key priority remains the defense of NATO’s eastern flank and cooperation within Air Policing, including the deployment of French Rafale aircraft in Poland following the night drone incident. All of this is part of our joint activities, as is engagement in European programs such as SAFE - said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.

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