Satellite start-up Rivada Space Networks (RSN), a wholly owned subsidiary of US-based Rivada Networks, has agreed a $2.4 billion deal with Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems to manufacture 300 low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites for the company’s new connectivity network.
RSN’s space-based data network aims to provide gigabit per second data delivery with low latency, offering pole-to-pole coverage.
The approximately 500kg satellites will be able to hand off signals across the network using inter-satellite links and onboard data routers, creating what RSN describes as an “optical backbone in space”.
Since assuming control of the project in early 2022, RSN has been working to complete the overall design of the system architecture and associated satellite deployment framework. With technical studies now completed, the company says that it believes that its procurement plan will successfully fulfil the requirements associated with its ITU Ka-band filings.
With the contract for manufacturing now in place, deployment is expected to start in 2025, with 300 satellites (288 plus 12 spares) in orbit by mid-2026.
“We are delighted that today we have completed another major milestone in the development of our unique constellations to enable secure, global connectivity for governments and enterprises,” said Clemens Kaiser, Rivada Space Networks’ Chief Programme Officer.
“The timeline was extremely tight, and I wholeheartedly congratulate our team and our industry partners. This demonstrates that we have the right technology in place to sustainably move RSN from concept to reality and that our chosen satellite manufacturer has the required combination of experience, agility and innovation to deliver these cutting-edge global satellite constellations.”
“We are really looking forward to moving to this next phase of our programme to manufacture and deploy our LEO constellations.”
