Airbus is considering the formation of a consortium with Rheinmetall and satellite manufacturer OHB to bid for the SATCOM Bw Stage 4 project, according to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter. The group has reportedly informed the Bundeswehr procurement office of its intention to submit a joint bid with the two companies.

The program involves the deployment of at least 100 small satellites by 2029 to establish an independent communication network for the German armed forces. Valued at several billion euros, it represents one of the German government's primary procurement projects this year.

Inspired by the Starlink network developed by Elon Musk, the system is designed to enable digital communication between tanks, fighter jets, drones, warships, and soldiers in the field.