Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • Airbus to provide UK MoD with satellite modems for Skynet

Defence Space

Airbus to provide UK MoD with satellite modems for Skynet

Airbus has signed a contract with the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) to provide the next-generation modems for the nation’s Skynet satellite communications constellation.

Image copyright Airbus

The new modems are delivered for the Future Protected Modem Type-A project. They will replace the current Paradigm Modem System, support the Skynet 5 satellites and the yet-to-be-launched Skynet 6A satellite and will provide several significant capability enhancements.

The new-generation, sovereign modem has been designed, developed and manufactured in the UK.

Barry Austin, Head of the MoD’s Defence Digital Skynet programme, said: “We are very pleased that following a competition for the future, resilient satellite communications modem for UK Ministry of Defence, that an 18-year contract for design, manufacture and through-life support for this critical capability has been awarded.

Advertisement
Amentum rectangle

"Building on their long heritage, this new Airbus-produced modem will ensure that the Skynet system continues to deliver world-class Military Satellite Communications to Front Line Commands and our deployed operational personnel worldwide.”

The FPMA Modem advanced Software-Defined Radio (SDR) system combines multiple techniques to provide a highly resilient solution, and is capable of hosting multiple waveforms. It will deliver safe and secure internet protocol (IP) communications on all commonly-used frequency bands, including X-band.

Richard Budd, Vice-President Space Digital Secure Connectivity UK, US and Asia, said: “This capability allows Airbus to continue to play a critical role in the provision of safe, secure, resilient and sovereign satellite communications capability for the UK, especially relevant in the current and dynamic operating environment.

Advertisement
Amentum rectangle

“In particular, the FPMA modem enables capability evolution in response to more sophisticated threats and will do so at sea and on the ground. It’s a fundamental step towards secure Multi Domain Operations.”

The Future Protected Modem-A is due to enter service in 2026, supported and enabled by integrated logistics support and training solutions. The modem includes an intuitive and secure Network Management System, to ensure effective use of the spectrum and to monitor and control all the equipment.

Advertisement
Babcock LB
ACM Sir Richard Knighton takes over as Chief of Defence Staff

Defence

ACM Sir Richard Knighton takes over as Chief of Defence Staff

2 September 2025

Outgoing Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin handed over today to his successor, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton.

British Army

Defence

British Army's new Kendrew Barracks' accomodation block completed

2 September 2025

New accommodation for British Army service personnel at Kendrew Barracks has been completed under a major investment programme that is improving living conditions across the Army estate.

Babcock and PGZ expand sea and air domain solutions

Defence Events

Babcock and PGZ expand sea and air domain solutions

2 September 2025

Babcock has signed a strategic cooperation agreement (SCA) with PGZ SA, the Polish Armaments Group, to expand their collaboration across sea and air domains.

Altair to demo AI-powered engineering and advanced connectivity at DSEI

Defence Events

Altair to demo AI-powered engineering and advanced connectivity at DSEI

2 September 2025

Altair will demonstrate the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered engineering, smart manufacturing and advanced connectivity at DSEI 2025, taking place next week (9th-12th September) at the ExCel Centre in London.

Advertisement
Amentum rectangle
Roke extends ZODIAC support for British Army

Defence

Roke extends ZODIAC support for British Army

2 September 2025

Roke has secured a £20 million contract with the British Army to ensure that Project ZODIAC continues to be optimised for the frontline.

Norway selects British warships

Defence

Norway selects British warships

1 September 2025

Billions of pounds will be pumped into the UK economy following Norway’s decision to select British warships for their Armed Forces – securing thousands of jobs in Britain for years to come.

Advertisement
ODU RT