Rheinmetall AG has inked a memorandum of understanding with US satellite firm Vantor, a former Maxar Technologies, to bid on German intelligence contracts. The move follows Berlin’s €35bn pledge to build a sovereign space capability and aims to secure control over satellite data for the armed forces and ensuring autonomy.

Vantor’s history of being cut off from Ukraine last year over US policy sparked debate about a potential ‘kill switch’ on defence tech. The partnership promises German forces sovereign control of the constellation and lets European customers directly steer Vantor’s assets, a shift that could reshape the continent’s satellite market.

Rheinmetall already won a €2.7bn contract for the Spock 1 reconnaissance programme and is eyeing a successor, Spock 2. By teaming with Vantor and existing partners like Iceye and OHB, the company can broaden its bid portfolio across surveillance, communications and drone‑guidance systems.

The deal aligns with Berlin’s strategy to reduce dependence on US satellites and could pressure rivals to offer more European‑controlled imagery. Investors will watch how the joint venture performs in upcoming tenders, as success could unlock further defence contracts across the EU.