Defence Secretary outlines ambitious UK space programme

This includes the UK becoming the first partner nation to join Operation Olympic Defender, a US-led international coalition formed to strengthen deterrence against hostile actors and supporting a RAF test pilot to Virgin Orbit’s small satellite programme.

These small, low-orbiting satellites can be sent into space more cost-effectively than their predecessors and can be replaced far more quickly. The programme may eventually see live high-resolution video beamed directly into the cockpit of the RAF’s fighter jet fleet, providing pilots with unprecedented levels of battle awareness.

To support this state-of-the-art system, the MoD has founded Team Artemis, a transatlantic team of UK and US defence and industry personnel. Team ARTEMIS intend to deliver the launch of the small satellites and undertake research into the wider military uses of small satellites.

The UK is already a leader in small satellite technology, including an investment of £4.5 million last year in the Carbonite 2 spacecraft. Carbonite 2 achieved a world-first in returning colour video from Low Earth Orbit.