TEKEVER has been selected as a key partner in developing France’s sovereign synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite capability. The company will contribute its expertise in autonomous systems and radio-frequency (RF) space technologies to a strategic programme aimed at ensuring France’s long-term autonomy in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).
The project is part of the DESIR consortium, which includes Loft Orbital and Thales Alenia Space, and has been selected by the French Space Agency (CNES) and the Direction générale de l’armement (DGA). TEKEVER’s specific role is the development of the critical active SAR antenna, a core component that determines overall system performance, reliability, and data quality. This builds on the company’s established work in advanced RF systems, including inter-satellite links and high-performance SAR payloads.
The DESIR programme adopts a “New Space” model, focusing on agile development, rapid deployment, and cost efficiency through proven technologies to ensure full sovereign control. The initiative is supported by TEKEVER’s significant commitment to France, which involves a €100 million investment over five years and the creation of 100 jobs nationwide, as announced at the Choose France 2025 Summit.
Beyond the satellite technology, this programme strengthens TEKEVER’s position in multi-domain ISR. By linking space-based SAR with its portfolio of autonomous aerial systems, the company aims to enable a seamless, multimodal architecture for persistent situational awareness from orbit to the tactical edge.
Nadia Maaref, Head of TEKEVER France, stated, “This selection recognises our technological leadership. The responsibility for the active SAR antenna places us at the heart of a programme critical to national sovereignty. We are delivering advanced technologies while investing in French excellence and skilled teams to support tomorrow’s defence missions.”
TEKEVER’s involvement is further validated by its contributions to major European Space Agency (ESA) missions like Hera and PROBA-3, where it has delivered advanced radar, communications, and AI-driven data systems. This role in DESIR solidifies its position as a trusted European partner for autonomous space and Earth observation missions.
