Rheinmetall Launched Its First Satellite Into Orbit
- 5.10.2026, 18:17
It must detect airborne threats in advance.
On October 1, 2026, the German conglomerate Rheinmetall, together with the Italian space company Argotec, launched the first satellite of their joint program into orbit. It collects intelligence data for early warning of air threats and air defense needs.
This was reported in a Rheinmetall press release.
The satellite was launched into orbit on October 1 by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California (U.S.). Rheinmetall called the launch a milestone in its new strategic partnership with Argotec.
Through its subsidiary Rheinmetall Italia SpA, the Düsseldorf-based conglomerate is beginning to develop its satellite capabilities for national security and military situational awareness.
The program is aimed at gathering intelligence, rather than routine mapping of ground targets. The satellite’s sensors are designed to detect ground-based indicators of emerging air threats. This provides early warning and data for air defense.
The collected data and images will be processed using artificial intelligence. They will be integrated into national defense and air defense systems and made directly available to customers.
The system combines several levels: space-based surveillance, ground stations, and tactical networks. These will be managed by a Command and Control Post. Rheinmetall asserts that this meets the defense and security needs of the new generation and enables missions to achieve a intelligence advantage.
The launch partner, Argotec—an international space company headquartered in Turin—has extensive experience in NASA programs and other leading international space programs. Both companies are using the success of the current mission to test their technical capabilities under real-world conditions and to further develop them jointly in phases.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, stated that the successful launch of the first satellite marked a milestone in strengthening national security and space capabilities.
According to him, the integration of space data into existing defense architectures is a critically important step in responding to the changing security environment. Papperger added that the collaboration reaffirms confidence in the company’s technological integration expertise and makes a significant contribution to technological sovereignty and sustainable network situational awareness.
Argotec Founder and CEO David Avino called the launch a key milestone in the creation of next-generation space infrastructure designed for operational and defense needs. According to him, together with Rheinmetall, the company is transforming space technology into a valuable operational asset: scalable, networked, and capable of supporting complex defense scenarios.
Avino also emphasized that this is a step toward greater technological autonomy, as data is transformed into information in near real time for decision-makers.
The companies plan to deploy a large constellation of satellites in orbit. The next launch is scheduled for 2028.
Bank's name: Bank Millennium S.A.
Address: ul. Stanislawa Zaryna, 2A, 02-593, Warszawa
IBAN: PL97116022020000000216711123
SWIFT: BIGBPLPW
Name of the account holder: Fundacja “KARTA ‘97”
Purpose/title of payment: Donation for statuary aims
You can contact us by the e-mail charter97@gmail.com
