Eyes in the sky: Finland’s satellite deal to boost surveillance capabilities from space
June 28, 2025
The Finnish Ministry of Defence has signed a letter of intent with ICEYE, the European defence technology specialist and operator of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, paving the way for the acquisition of ICEYE SAR satellites.
The agreement will enhance Finland’s efforts to expand its independent space-based intelligence and surveillance capabilities.
The LoI outlines the initial schedule for delivery, alongside the infrastructure and technical systems that would support a sovereign satellite intelligence network.
The Finnish Defense Forces intend to use the SAR data to improve real-time situational awareness for the defence and security teams tasked with making operational decisions.
It will offer an enhanced capability to monitor activity in any weather conditions.
An SAR satellite uses radar pulses to create high-resolution images of the surface of the Earth. It can penetrate through clouds and in darkness.
Finland’s role in Nato
The move aligns with Finland’s broader strategy to strengthen its defence posture following its accession to Nato, with autonomous satellite-based reconnaissance becoming a key pillar of national security.
The agreement is expected to accelerate the development of operational capabilities within the Finnish Defense Forces, giving the country a quicker route to deploying and controlling its own satellite intelligence assets.
“We are proud to contribute to strengthening Finland’s national security. Timely and reliable Earth observation data from space is a strategic asset that supports a wide range of decisions,” said Pekka Laurila, co-founder at ICEYE.
“With this capability, Finland will be well positioned to become a global leader in the field, and our collaboration with the Finnish Defense Forces is something our team deeply values. It also creates a vital environment for advancing capabilities that support the defense readiness of other NATO allies.”
Defence in space increasingly critical
“As space becomes increasingly critical, Finland is now taking a unique step forward in national defence. By acquiring our own satellites, we are strengthening our independent space-based intelligence and surveillance capabilities, and at the same time, we are supporting the domestic high-tech defense industry and creating new opportunities to deepen cooperation with allies and partners,” added Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen.
ICEYE currently operates the largest SAR satellite constellation globally, offering persistent coverage and rapid revisit times.
The company’s technology delivers imagery with 25 cm ground resolution, providing precise detection and monitoring of objects and activity.
To date, ICEYE has launched 54 SAR satellites, serving both its own operations and international customers.
