Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 48 of the DIP, where the current capability is on space-based ISR; and what the expected gains are by 2030.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is developing a nationally separable, space-based Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) satellite constellation and supporting digital infrastructure through Programme ISTARI.

As part of the Programme, MOD has contracted for four Operational Concept Demonstrator (OCD) satellites, which will operate in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) as follows:

• The first satellite, TYCHE, launched on 14 August 2024, has an electro-optical imaging sensor with video capability to detect moving objects. Following on-orbit commissioning and testing, it was fully graduated to the MOD in December 2025.
• The second satellite TITANIA will explore data technologies and capabilities. It is expected to launch in 2026.
• JUNO is the third satellite and will have an advanced electro-optical sensor. It is expected to launch in 2028.
• The fourth satellite system is OBERON. This consists of two satellites with high-performance Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors, which will enable 24/7 imagery collection even through cloud, night and in poor weather conditions. It is expected to launch in 2028.

Defence is developing the supporting digital infrastructure through the following investments:

• The MINERVA data hub will enable tasking and data collection for UK ISR satellites and will process and disseminate the collected data to those that require it.
• The PRIMUS ALPHA satellite ground station will be installed and commissioned at a UK site in 2027. A plan for the development of additional PRIMUS stations at other locations in the UK and overseas from 2028 onwards is currently being developed.
• Space Missions Operations Centres are in the process of being constructed. These centres will enable MOD to conduct missions involving MOD owned space vehicles and payloads.