Rheinmetall has launched a satellite into orbit to detect airborne threats

On October 1, 2026, the German defense conglomerate Rheinmetall, in collaboration with the Italian space company Argotec, launched its first reconnaissance satellite into orbit. The launch took place using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base in the United States. 

The spacecraft’s primary mission is to collect data for early warning of airborne threats, detect ground-based signs of emerging dangers, and support air defense needs.

The images and data collected will be processed using artificial intelligence and transmitted directly to national defense systems and tactical networks via a dedicated command and control center. Through this partnership, Rheinmetall is beginning to build out its own satellite capabilities to ensure information superiority and military situational awareness. The companies plan to establish a full-fledged orbital constellation, with the next satellite launch scheduled for 2028.

This was reported in a press release from Rheinmetall.

Earlier, the German defense conglomerate Rheinmetall unveiled the new-generation GMF 140 frigate, designed for the navies of NATO countries and their allies. The ship, which is 140 meters long and has a displacement of over 6,000 metric tons, is equipped with modern air defense, missile defense, and anti-submarine warfare systems, as well as the capability to launch 64 missiles from vertical launch systems.

Rheinmetall successfully tested the launch of FV-014 loitering munitions from a container-based launcher mounted on a moving truck. The company has already released a video of the tests.