Written question asked by Ben Obese-Jecty (Conservative) on Wednesday, 4 June 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 June 2025. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Thursday, 12 June 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Skynet

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when (a) SKYNET 6A and (b) SKYNET 6EC satellite communications programmes will come into service.

Answer: The Skynet 6 Programme continues to progress to meet Defence’s satellite communication needs. The build of the Skynet 6A satellite has transitioned into the testing and validation phase. The contracted in-service date is August 2026. Negotiations for the acquisition of the Enduring Capability satellites are progressing. The in-service dates will be agreed as part of that process, which remains commercial sensitive until the competition and final negotiations conclude.

Secondary information