UK’s £8.35 Billion Skynet 6 Military Satellite Program Receives ‘Red’ Delivery Rating
The United Kingdom's £8.35 billion Skynet 6 military satellite communications upgrade has been given a "red" delivery rating by the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), indicating that successful completion in its current form is unachievable. This critical assessment comes amid significant delays, rising costs, and issues attributed to supplier performance and Ministry of Defence staffing shortages.
Tumisang Bogwasi
Tumisang Bogwasi
LONDON, United Kingdom – The United Kingdom’s £8.35 billion program to upgrade its military satellite communications, Skynet 6, has received a critical “red” delivery rating from the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA). This designation signifies that the project’s successful completion in its current configuration appears to be unachievable, prompting concerns for a system intended to serve UK defense through 2041 and beyond, according to The Register.
NISTA, a joint unit overseeing government projects, cited major issues impacting project definition, schedule, budget, quality, and benefits delivery. The authority indicated that these challenges currently do not appear manageable or resolvable, suggesting the program may require significant re-scoping or reassessment.
Highlights
- UK’s £8.35 billion Skynet 6 satellite upgrade project received a “red” delivery rating from NISTA.
- First satellite launch, Skynet 6A, is delayed from 2025 to 2027 aboard a SpaceX rocket.
- Project costs have escalated by £1.25 billion since 2022, reaching an estimated £8.35 billion.
- Supplier performance issues and MoD workforce shortages are contributing to the delays.
- Skynet 6 aims to provide military satellite communications for the UK through 2041.
Program Challenges and Delays
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