Spanish space firms PLD Space and Sateliot have signed a commercial contract for the 2027 launch of two Tritó satellites aboard a dedicated MIURA 5 rocket, marking the first fully private Spanish space mission.
The agreement covers the deployment of two 160-kilogram, next-generation 5G satellites into Low Earth Orbit. This vertically integrated partnership encompasses the entire value chain—manufacturing, launch, operations, and commercialization—demonstrating Spain’s growing sovereignty in space capabilities.
Sateliot selected PLD Space specifically for MIURA 5’s ability to provide dedicated, customized launch services. This avoids the compromises of rideshare missions, giving Sateliot optimal deployment conditions and a competitive advantage in the 5G satellite telecommunications market.
MIURA 5 is a two-stage reusable small satellite launcher designed to ensure European technological independence in space transportation. For this mission, it will deliver Sateliot’s advanced Tritó satellites, which represent a significant leap in capacity. These satellites will provide both IoT connectivity and direct-to-device services for mobile units, enabling data, voice, and video applications based on the 5G standard. This enhanced capability supports critical applications in security, civil protection, and defense, strengthening network resilience when terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable.
Raúl Verdú, co-founder of PLD Space, reflected on the milestone: “I founded PLD Space 14 years ago to make this happen. Our alliance with Sateliot demonstrates the ability of two national companies to deliver unprecedented vertically integrated solutions. The level of competitiveness of this approach is unmatched in our sector.”
Jaume Sanpera, CEO of Sateliot, emphasized the strategic importance: “With this agreement, we fulfill two core principles: autonomy and national sovereignty. By launching with a Spanish company, we support ‘Marca España’ while ensuring global D2D connectivity with enhanced capabilities for both defense and civilian use.”
The mission underscores the maturity of Spain’s space ecosystem, positioning both companies as key players in the global space industry while advancing European strategic autonomy.
