MDA Space (NYSE:MDA) announced on Friday that it has received authorization to proceed (ATP) with antenna work for 66 satellites in the European IRIS² constellation. The initial contract, valued at over $100 million, covers digital phased arrays and an antenna controller, but the full agreement has not yet been finalized.
These 66 spacecraft represent the first layer of the IRIS² network, a planned low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellation of 330 satellites dedicated to Ka-band communications. This first tranche is earmarked for government, defense, and emergency services, with launches targeted for 2029. The remaining 264 satellites, which will support both Ku- and Ka-band frequencies, are scheduled to begin launching in 2030.
Strategic Significance
The IRIS² program is a cornerstone of Europe's digital sovereignty efforts, designed to provide secure, interoperable connectivity for public authorities and critical infrastructure. MDA's CEO, Mike Greenley, emphasized the company's role in delivering "interoperable connectivity that meets the requirements of the Layer 1 satellites." The antennas are designed to focus signal power on specific regions, support in-orbit routing, and manage interference, aligning with the network's 5G-native architecture.
This award builds on a series of contracts that are shaping the IRIS² supply chain. In September, Airbus signed a contract for the satellite platforms of the first layer, while Thales Alenia Space is responsible for the payloads. For the second layer, Thales Alenia Space will supply governmental payloads, with platforms provided by Aerospacelab.
Manufacturing and Timeline
MDA's manufacturing capabilities are a key asset. The company recently expanded its Montreal facility, doubling its manufacturing floor space to 185,000 square feet, with the capacity to produce up to 400 satellites per year. This expansion includes specialized antenna test chambers, ensuring rigorous validation before integration.
The timeline for the program is ambitious. The 66-satellite first layer is slated for launch in 2029, while the second layer is targeted to begin in 2030. These dates are subject to successful contract completion, antenna qualification, and launch readiness. MDA plans to add the ATP to its backlog in the fourth quarter of 2026, but no definitive contract completion date has been disclosed.
Market Context
The IRIS² constellation is a key component of the European Union's space strategy, with a total planned fleet of 348 satellites, including 18 in medium Earth orbit (MEO). The European Commission's August implementation agreement expanded the constellation to include the 66-satellite layer for defense and security. Independent reporting from Le Monde has confirmed that these satellites will be assembled in Toulouse, France.
This award positions MDA Space as a critical supplier for one of Europe's most ambitious space projects. The company's expertise in antenna technology and its expanded manufacturing capacity will be essential to meeting the program's demanding schedule.
