en.Wedoany.com Reported - AAC Clyde Space has signed a contract worth €10.9 million (approximately SEK 119 million) with the European Space Agency (ESA) to advance the development and demonstration of a VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) satellite constellation and related maritime services under the INFLECION program. This contract builds on the previously completed definition phase (Phase 1).

The INFLECION program currently encompasses multiple independent work streams, corresponding to different system capabilities. This contract covers Work Stream 1, which includes the development and in-orbit demonstration of a constellation of 12 satellites. The system relies on space-based monitoring and two-way VDES communication between satellites, ships, and shore stations. This marks the program's transition from the system definition phase to operational capability development, with launch, testing, and service demonstrations expected to be completed by early 2029.

The total estimated value of INFLECION Work Stream 1 is approximately €21.7 million (about SEK 236 million), of which 50% is co-funded by the UK Space Agency through ESA's Secure and Safe Space-based Systems (4S) Strategic Program (part of ESA's Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) program). AAC Clyde Space has previously stated that its commitment to the INFLECION program is fully funded. Of the €10.9 million contract value, approximately €4.4 million will be capitalized as development costs related to future operational service capabilities, with the remainder expected to be recognized as revenue during the development and demonstration phase, with zero net profit, reflecting project progress.

The co-funding structure reduces development risk and supports AAC Clyde Space's long-term expansion of space-based maritime services. This represents a key step in the company's strategy to grow its data and services business into scalable, recurring revenue.

AAC Clyde Space CEO Luis Gomes stated that the company is proud to lead a consortium of highly qualified partners to advance next-generation space-based maritime intelligence services. He noted the growing market demand for resilient space-based maritime intelligence, which the INFLECION program is precisely designed to develop.

Christophe Allemand, Head of ESA's Secure and Safe Space-based Systems Program Office, stated that INFLECION is a vital part of global efforts to enhance European capabilities in satellite maritime services. By providing dedicated connectivity for critical maritime operational services and delivering more timely and reliable information from space, the program supports safer, more resilient, and more sustainable maritime operations.

Henny Sands, Head of Satellite Communications at the UK Space Agency, stated that the INFLECION program is an important step for the UK in developing new space-based maritime capabilities. The program brings together leading industrial and academic partners to develop capabilities that enhance maritime safety and situational awareness, supporting more resilient and efficient global shipping.

INFLECION is a program to develop a new generation of satellite maritime intelligence services, combining three core technologies: VDES communication, radio frequency sensing, and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). These capabilities provide timely, reliable, and resilient information on maritime vessel activities, with applications including illegal activity detection, environmental monitoring, and communication between ships, shore stations, and satellites. Through this program, AAC Clyde Space builds on its established position in maritime data services and pioneering work in VDES communication from space.

Approximately 90% of global trade is transported by sea. Increasing geopolitical tensions, growing demand for resilient supply chains, and stricter environmental and safety requirements are driving demand for new space-based maritime services. INFLECION aims to support maritime authorities, coast guards, defense-related users, shipping companies, and other stakeholders requiring enhanced maritime situational awareness. The Work Stream 1 consortium comprises AAC Clyde Space, Applied Satellite Technology Ltd., Bright Ascension Ltd., Craft Prospect Ltd., Omanos Analytics Ltd., Plymouth Marine Laboratory, and the University of Strathclyde.

This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com