With the approval of the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag on June 26th, the implementation of the SatComBw Stage 3 project can begin. A total of 2.2 billion euros will be spent on development, production and the establishment of operational readiness in orbit as well as operation over 15 years. Financing is to come from the special fund until 2027 and then from the defense budget until 2044 (section 14).
The Bundeswehr's satellite communication (SatComBw) is indispensable for self-sufficient and independently usable communication and information services, writes the BMVg on its website. It ensures the global leadership capability and information supply of German forces, such as the operational contingents and the special forces. Furthermore, the SatComBw Level 3 project should ensure that NATO obligations in this area will continue to be fulfilled in the future. With SatComBw Level 3, the Bundeswehr is taking increased user requirements into account.
Mit SatComBw Stufe 3 werden durch technologische Weiterentwicklungen die signifikant höheren Nutzerforderungen abgedeckt. Ein wesentlicher Anteil sind gesteigerte aktive und passive Schutzmaßnahmen gegen Störungen.
The main contractor is Airbus Defense and Space (ADS), which will involve OHB System AG and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) via subcontracts.
SatComBw Stufe 3 besteht aus einem Raumsegment mit zwei Kommunikationssatelliten und dem Bodensegment. Um im Übergang von Stufe 2 zur Stufe 3 die Orbitalposition und die die Frequenzrechte zu erhalten, ist kurzfristig (Start Mitte 2027) ein Frequenzsicherungssatellit erforderlich. Dazu liefert die OHB System den Satelliten Sparrow und übergibt ihn im Orbit an den Betreiber. Den Flugbetrieb führt das DLR durch, das auch die dazu notwendige Infrastruktur bereitstellt.
As the main part of SatComBw, ADS is building the two communications satellites, which are to be handed over in orbit as ComSatBw 1B and 2B in early and mid-2029.
The agreed product lifespan is 15 years. This results in the contract term until December 31, 2044.
As an option, the contract should include an extension of operations for five years. The contract would then run until 2049. Another option is to deliver a backup satellite in the event that a satellite cannot be put into orbit (launch failure) or does not provide the required performance in orbit. Both options require a further 25 million euros submission.
To finance the implementation phase, the BMVg assumes that no sales tax will be incurred due to the provision of services in space. In connection with the SARah reconnaissance satellite, proceedings are ongoing before the financial courts. If the highest court declares a sales tax liability, this will result in a tax amount of around 338 million euros, for which no provision has been made.
Gerhard Heiming
