KSAT is a world leading provider of communication services for spacecraft and launch vehicles with an extensive and uniquely located global ground network, providing advanced monitoring services.

The appointment marks the next milestone toward revenue generation, commencing post commissioning of the Kleos’ Scouting Mission satellites.

Andy Bowyer, CEO of Kleos Space said, “One of the keys to our success lies in the choice of technological partners. We have appointed Kongsberg as they are one of the World leaders for data reception and near real time Earth Observation services. Kleos is proud to work with Kongsberg, with 50 years’ experience in a fast growing and challenging industry and environment.”

Kleos’ satellites will initially transmit observation data to the KSAT downlink ground station Svalbard in Norway. Kleos will have access to additional ground stations within the KSAT network, currently consisting of 15 locations worldwide through the KSAT Lite platform, which can provide back-up facilities and enlarged flexibility for Kleos.

Kleos will launch its initial Scouting Mission satellites in Summer 2019. The multi-satellite Scouting Mission system will form the cornerstone of a constellation that delivers a global picture of hidden maritime activity, enhancing the intelligence capability of government and commercial entities when AIS (Automatic Identification System) is defeated, imagery unclear and targets out of patrol range.