Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales and Leonardo, has signed a contract with NIBE Space, a subsidiary of NIBE Limited, to supply a high-resolution optical satellite. This contract marks the initial phase of NIBE’s Earth observation constellation project, with the first satellite expected to launch in 2025.
The agreement was signed in Pune during an official event attended by government representatives. BlackSky also entered into a service agreement with NIBE to provide subscription-based imagery and analytics for space-based monitoring services to various Indian customers.
Hervé Derrey, CEO of Thales Alenia Space, stated that the company will contribute its expertise in optical and radar sensors to the project. Ganesh Nibe, Chairman & Managing Director of NIBE Limited, described the partnership as a significant development in advancing India’s space technology sector.
NIBE Limited, established in 2021, manufactures components for the defense and space industries, including structures and sub-assemblies for various defense programs. The company has been involved in projects related to modular bridges, missile launchers, electronic systems, and small arms production.
Thales Alenia Space specializes in satellite-based systems for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, and scientific exploration. It operates across multiple countries, with consolidated revenues of approximately €2.2 billion in 2023 and a workforce of around 8,600 employees.
The collaboration between NIBE and Thales Alenia Space is part of a broader initiative to expand Earth observation capabilities in India, with future developments expected as the project progresses.