The plan assigns £3.18 billion over four years to satellite communications, space-based intelligence and surveillance, and space control. A force built around remote sensors and uncrewed platforms depends heavily on satellite links, making the ability to replace damaged or destroyed satellites an operational requirement. Reliance on allied launch access and limited investment in British launch sites leave that independence uncertain. An initial £40 million supports an integrated air, space, and missile-defence operations centre. Another £50 million would extend Skynet 5's life, with Skynet 6A expected to launch in 2027. The plan nevertheless drops the Skynet 6 narrowband system and turns toward allied space-as-a-service options. That cancellation concerns a specific communications element, while the document still includes Skynet 6A.
Chapter · 4:29:23-4:36:55
Networked forces need sovereign satellite resilience
Satellite communications and space surveillance receive £3.18 billion over four years, while launch independence and the ability to replace wartime losses remain concerns.