Belgium has entered into a significant partnership with space and defense technology company Redwire, entrusting it with a prime contract to design and deliver its inaugural national security satellite, named “MATTEO.” This strategic initiative is the result of collaboration with Aerospacelab, a Belgian firm specializing in the operation of small satellites focused on Earth observation and communication.
The initiative, fully funded by the Belgian Ministry of Defence, aligns with the country’s federal government’s objectives to bolster its defense capabilities. MATTEO will be constructed domestically, reinforcing Belgium’s National Defence Industrial Technology Base strategy, which aims to enhance the nation’s ability to effectively monitor, protect, and respond to various security threats.
Marc Dielissen, Executive Vice President of Redwire Europe, emphasized the significance of this satellite, stating, “MATTEO represents a significant advancement for Belgium’s technological sovereignty and national security. Redwire is honored to be trusted to deliver on a mission of such strategic importance.”
A spokesperson from the Belgian Defence Ministry highlighted the role of MATTEO as an in-orbit demonstrator. It is expected to provide both the ministry and the national industry with access to cutting-edge technology, fostering further capability development in the space domain.
Redwire Space’s activities extend beyond Belgium, with involvement in various missions under the European Space Agency (ESA). The company has contributed to the design, development, and integration of ESA’s Proba-series missions—Proba-1, Proba-2, Proba-V, and Proba-3—each aimed at testing new technologies in real space conditions.
Additionally, Redwire is the prime contractor for ESA’s Skimsat mission, which serves as a technology demonstrator satellite intended for operation in Very Low Earth Orbit, specifically between altitudes of 100 and 450 kilometers (62 to 280 miles). This further showcases the company’s commitment to advancing space capabilities within Europe and beyond.
