Proud moment as new generation of UK military capabilities are delivered into orbit

UK Space Command has successfully launched its first satellite into space which will be used to support military operations of the future for the UK's Armed Forces.  

Known as Tyche, the satellite is the first to be deployed by Space Command and will be used to strengthen the UK's Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.   

"Tyche shows the UK's commitment to support innovation in science and technology, stimulating growth across the sector and supporting highly skilled jobs in the UK," said Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle.

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UK Space Commander Major General Paul Tedman said: "This is a fabulous day for UK space.

"The successful launch of Tyche has shown that UK Space Command, and its essential partners across defence and industry, can rapidly take a concept through to the delivery of a satellite capability on orbit.

"Tyche represents the first of a future constellation of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance satellites that we'll launch over the coming years. 

"I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate everybody involved with Tyche and thank them for their support."

Operating in low Earth orbit over a five-year lifespan, Tyche will provide timely space-based imagery in support of the UK Armed Forces.  

Launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, by SpaceX, with its reusable Falcon 9 rocket, the satellite weighs 150 kg and was created through a £22m contract.

Military operations will be supported by these satellites, and they will contribute towards other tasks including natural disaster monitoring, and the development of mapping information.

The first signals from Tyche were received only a few hours after lift-off, confirming the successful launch.

Defence Equipment and Support space team leader Paul Russell said: "Working closely with UK Space Command, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory and industry to understand how to deliver in a new, complex and critical environment has been an exciting journey.  

"To see Tyche – the first of a new generation of UK military capabilities – delivered into orbit is an incredibly proud moment and a tribute to everyone's commitment to this key project."