Airbus Defence and Space (Airbus) and ST Engineering have signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to jointly explore and develop advanced satellite capabilities and digital solutions.
“These MoUs reflect our shared ambition to push the boundaries of geospatial intelligence,” Head of Region for Asia-Pacific, Airbus Defence and Space, Zakir Hamid, said.
“By combining Airbus’ space and geospatial expertise with ST Engineering’s strong digital and satellite systems capabilities, we are well positioned to deliver next-generation solutions for customers in Asia-Pacific, Europe and beyond.”
Signed at the Space Summit on the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow, the agreements have established a framework for cooperation in next-generation Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) capabilities and Artificial Intelligence (AI)–enabled geospatial analytics to meet evolving market and customer needs.
“We are excited to deepen our collaboration with Airbus Defence and Space, leveraging our capabilities in the design and manufacture of Earth observation satellites and other imagery solutions. In combination with our expertise in AI and digital tech, we are confident of creating innovative Space solutions and services together with Airbus,” Chief Operating Officer for Defence & Public Security, and President for Digital Systems, ST Engineering, Low Jin Phang, stated.
This MoU will formalise the collaboration to explore a joint partnership between Airbus and ST Engineering in developing a new satellite imaging concept known as multi-static Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), with ST Engineering to develop the companion satellites to operate alongside the PAZ-2 satellite manufactured by Airbus and the commercialisation of this service.
This “3D SAR” approach will involve one satellite transmitting radar signals and three others receiving them from different angles. By combining these perspectives, the system can allegedly generate richer, more detailed and more reliable 3D models of the Earth’s surface.
According to the two companies, this multi-satellite approach will ensure high-accuracy imaging regardless of darkness, weather, or ground interference. These insights will enhance missions in defence, border surveillance, and disaster response, where timely and dependable information is critical.
The second MoU will see Airbus and ST Engineering develop a Generative AI system for advanced satellite imagery analysis. By applying advanced AI techniques to geospatial data, the collaboration will enhance object detection, change monitoring, and automated reporting.
To further support innovation and scaling, the collaboration will also assess opportunities to tap into Singapore’s local expertise to accelerate the development and deployment of satellite and AI technologies.