Overview
- OHB confirmed early-stage talks with Rheinmetall about a cooperation to bid for the SATCOMBw Stage 4 communications constellation, while Rheinmetall declined to comment.
- Reports put the contract at €8–10 billion for at least around 100 LEO satellites with a goal of initial capability by 2029, prioritizing NATO’s eastern flank under national control.
- Airbus and other consortia are also preparing bids, with Airbus pointing to its current SATCOMBw Stage 3 geostationary program and plans to expand satellite production in Germany.
- Media accounts suggest a tender could open as soon as February, but the government has not announced a timetable and officials note parliament will be informed before procurement moves forward.
- Investors reacted strongly with OHB shares jumping roughly 30–40 percent, as Rheinmetall’s space pivot is underscored by its recent ~€1.7 billion Bundeswehr radar-satellite award with partner Iceye.