New contract awarded to BAE Systems
U.S. company Vantor announced that it has engaged BAE Systems to design and build its next generation of high‑resolution imaging satellites. The deal re‑establishes a partnership with the former Ball Aerospace unit now part of BAE.
Background of the collaboration
Ball Aerospace, which was acquired by BAE Systems several years ago, played a key role in creating the imaging technology used by DigitalGlobe. By renewing this relationship, Vantor aims to leverage that heritage to expand its commercial remote‑sensing capabilities.
Objectives for the new spacecraft
The upcoming platforms are expected to deliver finer spatial resolution and faster data downlink rates, positioning Vantor more competitively against rivals such as Maxar and Airbus Defence and Space.
Technical focus areas
- Advanced optics achieving sub‑meter resolution
- Higher bandwidth for rapid image delivery
- Durable bus architecture for extended orbital life
Future outlook
Launches are slated for the next few years, and both firms indicated that the partnership could also benefit scientific missions in addition to commercial applications.