Defence Forces´ SAR satellite launches into space

The Defence Forces’ second SAR satellite was launched into space on Sunday, said an official press release on Monday.

The satellite, integrated via Exolaunch, successfully lifted off aboard the Twilight rideshare mission with SpaceX from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.

Earlier in June 2025, Finland’s Ministry of Defence signed a letter of intent (LOI) with the Finnish company ICEYE on the procurement of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites.

Based on the letter of intent, the Defence Forces placed an order for a satellite remote sensing system in September 2025.

The procurement includes three satellites and options that enable it to extend the satellites’ life cycle and expand the system.

The SAR satellites were purchased to develop the Defence Forces’ independent space-based intelligence and surveillance capabilities.

ICEYE’s SAR satellites can collect images and monitor any location in all weather and lighting conditions. The data generated by the satellites can also be used for the needs of other authorities.