The geointelligence provider will launch the first satellites of its constellation on a Rocket Lab launch vehicle in August 2019.

Kleos Space has partnered with New Zealand-based launch services provider Rocket Lab to loft the first of its radio frequency reconnaissance satellites to orbit.

It will be the first launch of the firm’s Scouting Mission, the first satellites a constellation aimed at providing intelligence on hidden maritime activity. Material released by Kleos indicates that the four satellites have been assembled and tested to fit the launch pod of the Electron rocket, which will be launched from Rocket Labs’ Maxwell dispenser.

Rocket Lab’s Senior Vice President of Global Launch Services, Lars Hoffman, says the team is proud to provide Kleos with responsive and tailored access to orbit.

“We’re excited to give the Kleos Scouting Mission satellites a first-class ride to orbit on Electron. We’ve worked closely with the Kleos team to design a tailored rideshare mission that lays the strong foundation for a future constellation.”

The Scouting Mission satellites will be destined for a 500 kilometre Sun Synchronous Orbit, with the launch scheduled during a 14-day window in August.

Stay up to date by getting stories like this delivered to your mailbox.
Sign up to receive our free weekly Spatial Source newsletter.