Space42 and ICEYE announce JV to bring satellite manufacturing to UAE
UAE-based Space42 and global SAR satellite leader ICEYE have unveiled a joint venture to manufacture Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites in the UAE.
This collaboration builds on their successful partnership, highlighted by the launch of the UAE’s first SAR satellite, Foresight-1, in August 2024.
The joint venture is set to bolster the UAE’s Earth Observation (EO) Programme, advancing national capabilities in satellite remote sensing.
By addressing increasing global demand for high-resolution imagery and SAR data, the venture will empower applications in disaster management, climate monitoring, and infrastructure planning.
Operations will be centred at Space42’s Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) facility in Abu Dhabi, which will also house low Earth orbit (LEO) mission operations.
This hub aims to foster a local SAR ecosystem, supporting satellite manufacturing and constellation management while facilitating knowledge transfer and technology development.
Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Bayanat Smart Solutions, Space42, said: “The joint venture 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.”
By combining global expertise with local innovation, Space42 and ICEYE are positioning the UAE as a leader in advanced satellite manufacturing and Earth observation technologies.
Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and co-founder of ICEYE said: “This joint venture 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 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.”
