On 21 February, Rivada Space Networks GmbH contracted American manufacturer Terran Orbital to produce 300 satellites in the 500 kg range for a planned LEO secure data-relay constellation. Rivada Space Networks is the German subsidiary of US company Rivada Networks, formed in 2022, which has been more terrestrially focussed. Rivada Space eventually intends to operate a 600-strong LEO constellation providing gigabit speed, very low latency, ultra-secure global data relay services.
The order is valued at US$2.4bn which primarily covers the spacecraft as well a portion of the expected ground segment. The contract has been placed under the shadow of looming ITU deadlines for the two filings – made in Liechtenstein – which the constellation intends to use. Reportedly Rivada Space is intending to apply to the ITU for a waiver to avoid the first “Res 35” milestone, which would penalise the filings for not having enough satellites launched. If successful, Rivada Space will get a pass for this milestone allowing it to focus its attention on meeting the 50 per cent launched milestone. Since there are two filings there are two milestone dates. These tie into the two delivery windows Terran Orbital is required to meet, each needing 144 satellites to be launched by Q1 2026 and Q2 2026.
According to Rivada Space and Terran Orbital, it is intended that four initial units will be launched during 2025 to provide market readiness tests and satellite control experience. Also included in the contract are 12 planned in-orbit spare satellites.
