Airbus Defence and Space has been appointed as the main contractor for developing and manufacturing two new PAZ-2 radar satellites. This project aims to ensure the continuity of the current Earth observation PAZ satellite, which has been operational since 2018. The program is led by Hisdesat for the Spanish Ministry of Defence and marks a significant milestone for the Spanish space industry, with approximately 65% of the satellites’ components being developed by Spanish companies under Airbus’s leadership.
The PAZ-2 satellites are set to be among the most advanced globally, offering enhanced capabilities compared to their predecessor. They will significantly improve image quality and resolution to better than 25 centimeters, increase coverage up to 6.7 million km² per day per satellite, and orbit Earth 16 times daily. These advancements will bolster intelligence and surveillance capabilities for the Spanish Armed Forces and support civilian applications such as infrastructure monitoring, risk management, border control, and disaster assessment. The satellites will capture radar imagery around the clock in all weather conditions.
“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,” said Alain Fauré, Head of Airbus Space Systems.
Airbus will handle the design, assembly, and testing of both satellites at its Getafe site in Spain. The company will also leverage its expertise in very high-resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology while leading a consortium that includes over 15 Spanish companies.
The first PAZ-2 satellite is expected to become operational by mid-2031. Through this contract, Hisdesat and Airbus aim to continue leading in high-end X-band radar services, enhancing Spain’s Earth observation capabilities and strengthening Europe’s overall resilience.
