Space-based ISR Kongsberg and Helsing launch joint initiative for sovereign European ISR satellite constellation

Helsing and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace have signed a cooperation agreement to establish a sovereign European satellite constellation for intelligence, surveillance and target acquisition by 2029. The initiative brings together satellite platforms, AI-based data processing, sensor payloads and launch services in a German-Norwegian industrial framework aimed at strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy in space-based defence capabilities.

Helsing, the German defence technology company specialising in artificial intelligence for military applications, and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace have formalised a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of European space-based intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The cooperation targets the establishment of a fully networked satellite constellation for ISR and targeting purposes within the next four years.The project is positioned as a response to Europe’s growing need for sovereign space-based situational awareness amid increased geopolitical tensions. According to the partners, recent conflicts have underscored the strategic importance of persistent, weather-independent ISR from orbit. The German-Norwegian initiative also builds on longstanding security cooperation between both countries and aligns with Germany’s expanding defence space programmes.

The technical concept combines satellite platforms from Kongsberg with Helsing’s AI-based onboard data processing. The systems are designed to fuse multiple data sources, including synthetic aperture radar, electro-optical and radio-frequency signals. Helsing contributes AI algorithms already deployed for real-time data analysis in operational environments, enabling pre-processing of sensor data directly in orbit before transmission to ground stations.Hensoldt will supply key sensor payloads for the constellation, including SAR radar, EO/IR sensors and electronic warfare components. Kongsberg Satellite Services, which operates one of the world’s largest ground station networks, will provide satellite communication and operational services.Launch services for the constellation are planned to be provided primarily by Isar Aerospace, using its launch facilities at Andøya Space in Norway. The cooperation also includes plans to establish satellite production capacity in Germany as part of the broader objective to strengthen Europe’s independent defence-industrial base.

According to Helsing, the operational relevance of space-based ISR has been demonstrated through its ongoing use in Ukraine, where AI-supported analysis contributes to continuous situational awareness. The partners state that the new constellation will provide persistent monitoring, targeting support and secure communication across European defence structures.Kongsberg emphasises that sovereign access to space-based surveillance, communication and connectivity is considered a prerequisite for credible deterrence. The company notes that effective use of defence resources increasingly depends on resilient satellite infrastructure under full European control.Hensoldt highlights the importance of sovereign sensor technology for Europe’s security architecture. By integrating German sensor systems with Norwegian satellite platforms and AI-driven data processing, the project aims to establish a resilient, multi-layered space architecture for European defence applications.