Germany Plans to Create Starlink Equivalent for Bundeswehr

German companies Rheinmetall and OHB are discussing the creation of a military satellite internet service similar to Elon Musk's Starlink for the Bundeswehr. This was reported by The Financial Times (FT), citing sources.

"Discussions are ongoing regarding a partnership that will provide access to a portion of Berlin's €35 billion budget earmarked for military space technologies," the report states.

According to FT, the proposed joint venture will partake in a multibillion-dollar contract to create a secure satellite communication network in low Earth orbit for the German armed forces. Officials are referring to the project as the "military Starlink for the Bundeswehr." The publication clarifies that negotiations are occurring amid Germany's desire to rapidly expand its military capabilities and reduce reliance on the United States.

Rheinmetall, traditionally known for tank and ammunition production, secured its first space contract last year, worth €2 billion, to produce satellites in collaboration with Finnish company Iceye.