The Defense Ministry of Ukraine, German defense giant Rheinmetall and ICEYE, an international company in the field of SAR satellite systems, have signed a contract on the use of satellite data in the interests of defense of Ukraine.

"We are expanding our intelligence capabilities through cooperation with international partners. The Ministry of Defense has signed a strategically important contract with ICEYE, a leader in SAR satellite technology," Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said on Facebook on Tuesday.

The contract will provide Ukrainian military with access to high-precision satellite imagery with complete coverage of the combat zone, he said, adding that the command will be able to independently set priority observation areas and quickly receive up-to-date data via the ICEYE satellite system.

The minister also noted that the agreement was made possible with the support of the German government and Rheinmetall, which acted as a contracting party.

"I am grateful to our partners for their assistance and trust. By implementing advanced space reconnaissance technology, we are creating a technological advantage that enhances combat capability and protects our military personnel," Umerov said.

Ukraine will gain access to more high-precision space images from SAR satellites as soon as this year. And the military command will be able to determine on its own the areas for satellite imagery depending on the intensity of hostilities.

ICEYE closely cooperated with the Defense Ministry to support and help Ukraine develop its space defensive capabilities. In August 2022, the company signed a major contract with the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation and provided access to data from one of its satellites.

In July 2024, ICEYE and the Defense Ministry signed a memorandum on cooperation to outline partnership with the aim of strengthening Ukraine's space capabilities.