UK to update industry on GBP1bn space programme

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is hosting an in-person industry day on 29 June that will explore opportunities for defence suppliers to engage with the government's space-based capability programme. 

Announced on 1 May, the briefing will include an update on the “scope, vision and context status” of the GBP1 billion ‘Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance’ programme, otherwise known as ISTARI. 

Under ISTARI, launched in the early 2020s, the UK plans to develop a comprehensive Earth-observation constellation for its military – a capability it currently lacks.  

With the help of industry partners, several “operational concept demonstrators” are being adopted under the programme to deliver an “in-service” capability, providing “continual, resilient, timely, pervasive, and flexible observations across the globe,” the MoD said.  

To-date, a key milestone in the programme involved the launch of the UK’s Tyche satellite in 2024, with plans to launch its delayed Titania satellite this year, and the Oberon and Juno satellites in 2027. 

Now, the MoD is seeking to contextualise its latest requirements for ISTARI in light of the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, while allowing suppliers to “reacquaint” themselves with the programme’s primary stakeholders. 

During the industry day, a member of the Government Commercial Agency will also provide information regarding its new Space Technology Solutions Dynamic Market, which is described as the organisation’s “primary route to market” for space. 

The engagement itself will be held at MoD Abbey Wood in Bristol, with two representatives from each approved company allowed to attend. 

Registration to attend is open until 5 June and is first-come first-served.  

Prospective attendees will need to email the MoD via an address included in the announcement.