OHB Lands EUR 554 Million Copernicus Sentinel-3 Next Generation Topography Contract
Europe is upgrading its orbital network for tracking ocean currents and melting ice caps. OHB System AG secured a EUR 554 million ($622 million) contract on November 4, 2026, to develop the Sentinel-3 Next Generation Topography mission, Aviation Week reported. The agreement includes a firm order for a first satellite and an option for a second spacecraft to replace existing hardware in orbit. Announced in Bremen on November 4, 2026, the landmark contract strengthens OHB’s leading position in European Earth observation, as the European Space Agency once again relies on the company’s proven expertise in developing complex satellite systems to monitor climate change, oceans, coastlines, and ice-covered regions within Europe’s Copernicus earth observation programme.
Marco Fuchs, CEO of OHB SE, stated that the mission will provide critical data for climate research, environmental monitoring, and the protection of polar ice caps. The company will build the spacecraft as prime contractor leading a European industrial consortium. Miguel Such Taboada, ESA Sentinel-3 NG topography project manager, noted that the project builds on the heritage of Sentinel-3 and Sentinel-6 to ensure observational continuity.
Enhanced Altimetry Instruments for Sun-Synchronous Orbit Operations
The two identical spacecraft will operate in a sun-synchronous orbit and carry state-of-the-art altimeters. These instruments will deliver higher revisit rates and greater precision at sea than current models, according to Aviation Week. Ann-Theres Schulz, S3-NGT Project Manager at OHB System AG, highlighted that the industrial consortium brings together more than four decades of European altimetry experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the S3-NGT Mission
When was the S3-NGT contract signed?
The contract between the European Space Agency and OHB System AG was finalized on November 4, 2026.
What is the primary function of the new satellites?
The spacecraft will monitor ocean topography, ice surfaces, inland waters, and polar ice caps with advanced altimetry instruments.
How many satellites are included in the initial agreement?
The EUR 554 million deal covers one firm satellite with an option for a second identical spacecraft.