Space42, a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, and ICEYE, a global leader in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations for high-fidelity Earth Observation, have created a joint venture to manufacture SAR satellites in the UAE. This builds on their successful cooperation, which includes the recent launch of the UAE's first SAR satellite, Foresight-1, in August 2024.

 

Focused on satellite manufacturing and deploying SAR satellite missions, this JV will directly advance the UAE’s Earth Observation (EO) Programme, which was created to build national satellite remote sensing and EO capabilities. The JV aims to address the growing demand for high-resolution imagery and data from SAR satellites, which can be applied across various use cases. 

 

Space42’s new Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) and LEO mission operations facilities in Abu Dhabi will be home to a local SAR ecosystem, hosting the JV’s manufacturing operations and Space42’s constellation operation services. 

 

Platform for technology transfer

This joint partnership also serves as a platform for technology transfer and knowledge sharing that will ultimately propel the national R&D efforts for future sovereign SAR payloads. The JV strengthens ICEYE’s local footprint to support UAE’s growing need for SAR and Earth Observation capabilities.

 

Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Bayanat Smart Solutions, Space42, said: “The JV is a continuation of our ongoing strategic partnership with ICEYE to advance Earth Observation capabilities. It will directly support Space42’s commitment to unlocking the full potential of space and ground systems capabilities, ultimately adding customer value through AI-enabled solutions. It also supports the UAE’s space ambitions by bringing SAR manufacturing to the region, positioning the nation at the forefront of advancing space technology globally.” 

 

This partnership will enrich the UAE’s industrial ecosystem by localising the supply chain and sourcing components and services from existing industrial players in the UAE and build a strong local body of knowledge for the UAE in SAR with the participation of Emirati talent. It will also support Emiratisation efforts, providing opportunities for national talent to drive innovation and contribute to economic growth and national prosperity.

 

Coordinated approach

Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE, said: “This JV is expected to bring efficiency in deploying, managing and operating SAR constellations as Space42 and ICEYE join forces to address the market in a coordinated approach. We are proud to see our satellite production line extended to manufacture the state-of-the-art SAR technologies in the UAE through our partnership with Space42, enhancing the global reach and positive impact of ICEYE’s technology. We are excited to grow ICEYE’s local footprint and look forward to accelerating the UAE space programme and the local space and SAR capabilities by harnessing the most of both companies’ expertise for the benefit of the people of the UAE.”

 

This JV is the latest in several strategic partnerships that capitalise on Space42 and ICEYE’s complementary capabilities. The most recent was the successful launch of the UAE’s first SAR satellite, Foresight-1, in August 2024. Foresight-1 was launched as part of the UAE’s comprehensive SAR constellation, which will continue to grow over the next three years.--TradeArabia News Service