A significant milestone for UK Space Command was achieved last night with the successful launch of Tyche, the first military satellite designed to support UK military
operations. This satellite, named Tyche, represents a crucial advancement in the UK's Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
Tyche is the first satellite developed under the Ministry of Defence's space-based ISR program. It will capture high-resolution daytime images and videos of the Earth’s surface, bolstering the UK's ability to gather critical intelligence. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has underscored the importance of space technology in modern military operations, making Tyche's launch particularly timely.
The satellite is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Defence to establish a constellation of satellites and supporting ground systems by 2031. This network will not only enhance military operations but will also support a range of government activities, including monitoring natural disasters, developing mapping information, conducting environmental assessments, and tracking the global impacts of climate change.
Tyche was designed and built in the UK by Surrey Satellites Technology Limited (SSTL) under a £22 million contract awarded by Defence Equipment & Support. Notably, it is the first satellite to be fully owned by the Ministry of Defence. A few hours after its launch, SSTL received the first signals from Tyche, confirming that the satellite, which is about the size of a washing machine, had successfully entered orbit.
Operating in Low Earth Orbit, Tyche will provide the UK Armed Forces with timely and accurate space-based imagery over its anticipated five-year lifespan. The design and construction of the 150-kilogram satellite supported approximately 100 high-skilled jobs at SSTL since 2022.
Tyche was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard SpaceX's reusable Falcon 9 rocket as part of the "Transporter 11" mission. This successful launch marks a significant step forward in the UK's space defense capabilities.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle said:
“Tyche will provide essential intelligence for military operations as well as supporting wider tasks across government.”
“Tyche also shows the UK’s commitment to support innovation in science and technology, stimulating growth across the sector and supporting highly skilled jobs in the UK.”
UK Space Commander, Major General Paul Tedman said:
“This is a fabulous day for UK space. The successful launch of Tyche has shown that UK Space Command, and its essential partners across defence and industry, can rapidly take a concept through to the delivery of a satellite capability on orbit.”
“Tyche represents the first of a future constellation of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance satellites that we’ll launch over the coming years.”
“I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate everybody involved with Tyche and thank them for their support.”
Paul Russell, DE&S Space Team Leader, said:
“Working closely with UK Space Command, Dstl and industry to understand how to deliver in a new, complex and critical environment has been an exciting journey.
“To see Tyche - the first of a new generation of UK military capabilities - delivered into orbit is an incredibly proud moment and a tribute to everyone’s commitment to this key project.”