SKYNET 6A is on track for launch in 2025 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 after the completion of the critical design review (CDR) of the UK MOD'S next secure military communications satellite.Airbus Defence and Space was awarded the SKYNET 6A contract in July 2020 to supplement the existing SKYNET 5 fleet of four satellites and enhance the UK's milsatcom capability.The contract covers the design, development, manufacture, assembly, integration, test and launch of SYKNET 6A and includes key national technology development programmes.SKYNET 6A will have a "unique military communications payload" based on the Eurostar Neo telecommunications satellite platform.Airbus adds SKYNET 6A will use "the latest digital processing to provide more capacity and greater versatility than previous SKYNET satellites" and Airbus' electric orbit raising propulsion and electric station-keeping systems to maximise cost-effectiveness.The CDR was achieved as per the development schedule; the next major milestone will be the delivery of the satellite's communications structure by the end of 2022.Airbus has provided SKYNET 5 to the MOD on a full-service contracted basis since 2003; the company has been involved in the SKYNET programme since 1974.
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