The Finnish Ministry of Defense has signed a Letter of Intent with Helsinki-based satellite company ICEYE to acquire synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, aiming to boost national intelligence and surveillance capabilities from space.
Under the agreement, ICEYE will provide technical systems and delivery plans for satellites designed to support Finland’s autonomous space-based situational awareness. The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen national defense infrastructure and secure persistent access to Earth observation data, regardless of weather or light conditions.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defense, the satellites will be used to support real-time decision-making across Finland’s national leadership and defense authorities. The timeline and implementation phases have not been disclosed, but the deal is positioned as a strategic step in enhancing domestic capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign surveillance systems.
Finland’s Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen noted that the project contributes not only to military readiness but also to the domestic defense technology sector. He emphasized that having nationally operated satellites would increase Finland’s resilience in space and provide a foundation for greater cooperation with NATO allies.
ICEYE, which currently operates the world’s largest commercial SAR satellite constellation, has launched 54 such satellites to date. Its systems offer 25 cm ground resolution and are used globally for defense, disaster monitoring, and maritime surveillance.
