Spain to Replace Failed Airbus-Built Satellite with New Airbus Model

Spanish government and satellite operator Hisdesat select Airbus to build replacement for SpainSat NG2 after in-orbit failure.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 5:18pm

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The Spanish government and satellite operator Hisdesat have tentatively chosen Airbus Defence and Space to build a new satellite, SpainSat NG3, to replace the Airbus-built SpainSat NG2 that failed in orbit last November, just five weeks after launch. The failure occurred during NG2's orbit-raising maneuver to its final geostationary position at 30 degrees west, with Airbus concluding the cause was likely a micrometeorite or other space debris impact.

Why it matters

The loss of the SpainSat NG2 satellite was a significant setback for Spain's military and government communications capabilities, as well as a financial blow to Airbus. The selection of Airbus to build the replacement NG3 satellite represents an opportunity for the company to redeem itself and restore confidence in its satellite manufacturing abilities.

The details

Hisdesat and the Spanish Ministry of Defense are now in the process of seeking approval from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to launch the new SpainSat NG3 satellite in 2030. The satellite will carry UHF, X-band, and military Ka-band payloads to provide secure communications for the Spanish government and military.

  • The SpainSat NG2 satellite failed in orbit in November 2025, just five weeks after launch.
  • Hisdesat and the Spanish Ministry of Defense are seeking ITU approval to launch the replacement SpainSat NG3 satellite in 2030.

The players

Airbus Defence and Space

A division of the Airbus aerospace company that will build the new SpainSat NG3 satellite to replace the failed NG2 model.

Hisdesat

The Spanish satellite operator that, along with the Spanish government, has selected Airbus to build the replacement SpainSat NG3 satellite.

Spanish Ministry of Defense

The Spanish government agency that is working with Hisdesat on the replacement of the failed SpainSat NG2 satellite.

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What they’re saying

“The loss of the SpainSat NG2 satellite was a major setback, but we are confident that Airbus can deliver a reliable replacement that will restore our critical communications capabilities.”

— Unnamed Spanish Ministry of Defense official

What’s next

Hisdesat and the Spanish Ministry of Defense must receive approval from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to secure the 2030 launch slot for the new SpainSat NG3 satellite.

The takeaway

The selection of Airbus to build the replacement SpainSat NG3 satellite represents an opportunity for the company to redeem itself after the failure of the previous NG2 model. The successful launch and operation of NG3 will be crucial for restoring Spain's military and government communications capabilities.