Bundeswehr gains direct access to dedicated SAR satellites under SPOCK 1

Germany's SPOCK-1 programme has given the Bundeswehr direct access to imagery from dedicated synthetic-aperture radar satellites operated by Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions. The €1.7 billion gross contract, awarded in December 2025, covers satellite operations, ground infrastructure and automated imagery evaluation through the end of 2030, with extension options. The capability supports German forces, including the brigade in Lithuania, by allowing the Bundeswehr to independently task the dedicated constellation. Rheinmetall began satellite manufacturing at Neuss on October 6 and aims to produce dozens annually, while the service combines company-operated spacecraft with a dedicated military reconnaissance capability.