Space Technology News 15 January 2026 - 18 January 2026

Germany’s $41 billion military space splurge: lasers, spy satellites and 100+ secure comms satellites
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Germany’s $41 billion military space splurge: lasers, spy satellites and 100+ secure comms satellites

Germany is considering a €35 billion military space plan focused on an encrypted satellite network of over 100 satellites, its space commander said. The proposal includes spy satellites, space planes, and non-kinetic tools like jamming and lasers to disrupt hostile satellites. Berlin aims to prioritize domestic and European suppliers for the project.
February 3, 2026
Airbus’ SpaceRAN bet: a 5G “base station in space” is coming, with a 2027 in‑orbit demo
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Airbus’ SpaceRAN bet: a 5G “base station in space” is coming, with a 2027 in‑orbit demo

Airbus UpNext has launched the SpaceRAN demonstrator to test standardized 5G Non-Terrestrial Network connectivity from orbit, with a satellite payload planned for launch in 2027 and in-orbit testing in 2028. Aalyria is providing real-time optimization software for the project. The initiative is backed by the French government’s France 2030 plan.
January 15, 2026