# ICEYE and Nokia partner to build sovereign broadband satellite networks for governments and defence

Canonical page: https://technooptimist.io/stories/iceye-and-nokia-partner-to-build-sovereign-broadband-satellite-networks-68e72721
Date: 1 Oct 2026
About: [ICEYE](https://technooptimist.io/companies/iceye.md)
Original source: https://www.inderes.fi/releases/iceye-and-nokia-partner-to-launch-secure-and-sovereign-satellite-communications-for-governments-and-defense-customers

ICEYE and Nokia announced on October 1, 2026 that they will jointly develop secure, sovereign broadband low Earth orbit satellite communications for governments. The partners say the systems complement existing military and commercial networks rather than replace them, and that the first communications satellites are expected to launch in 2028.

## Key facts

- ICEYE contributes its record of delivering sovereign satellite missions; Nokia contributes secure networking technology and its defence portfolio.
- The two companies will integrate satellites, ground infrastructure and ruggedised end-user terminals.
- Nations will own and control the satellites, the ground segment and the terminals.
- Target customers are defence forces, border security, emergency services, first responders and disaster-response agencies.

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