French radio frequency (RF) detection company Unseenlabs has expanded its collaborative efforts with GomSpace, a renowned smallsat manufacturer, by ordering two additional cubesats. Announced on July 1, 2026, this contract, valued at 2.2 million euros ($2.5 million), signifies the strengthening of Unseenlabs' space-based RF detection capabilities, specifically geared towards maritime surveillance.
This recent order from GomSpace marks the 16th cubesat that Unseenlabs has sourced from the manufacturer, with previous orders placed in 2022, 2024, and 2025. These satellites play a pivotal role in enhancing Unseenlabs' constellation, which is dedicated to detecting radio frequencies for maritime surveillance. The technology is particularly useful for identifying ships that are not visible through traditional automatic identification systems (AIS).
Unseenlabs has already made significant strides in deploying its satellite network, with 22 satellites launched to date. The latest addition to this fleet was launched using a Japanese H3 launcher in June 2026. The company is also on the cusp of introducing its second-generation satellites, which promise improved RF signal detection capabilities and an expanded scope of multi-domain awareness, extending beyond maritime to include land and space monitoring.
Jonathan Galic, co-founder, president, and CTO of Unseenlabs, highlighted the strategic advantages of maintaining consistency in satellite platforms. "Continuing to build our infrastructure on the same proven platform greatly benefits Unseenlabs and allows us to reinforce further the persistence of our services," Galic noted.
The decision to partner consistently with GomSpace underscores the trust and reliability Unseenlabs places in the manufacturer's 8U platform, which forms the foundation of the ordered cubesats. GomSpace, headquartered in Denmark, is recognized for its expertise in designing and manufacturing nanosatellites and is a preferred choice for various space missions worldwide.
The evolution of Unseenlabs' satellite constellation reflects broader trends in the aerospace industry, where the deployment of small satellites for niche applications like maritime surveillance is gaining momentum. These advancements are crucial for improving the accuracy and scope of monitoring activities, especially in remote or contested maritime regions where traditional tracking methods fall short.
The implications of this partnership extend beyond immediate technological enhancements. As Unseenlabs continues to augment its satellite constellation, it is well-positioned to contribute to the increasingly complex landscape of global maritime security. The ability to detect vessels that evade conventional tracking systems can provide critical data for governments and private entities aiming to enhance maritime domain awareness and security.
Moreover, the expansion of Unseenlabs' capabilities aligns with the global push towards leveraging space-based technologies for comprehensive environmental and security monitoring. As the company prepares for its next phase of satellite launches, its focus on multi-domain awareness will likely set new precedents for the integration of spaceborne data into terrestrial applications.
Looking ahead, Unseenlabs' continuous innovation and strategic partnerships suggest a promising trajectory in the realm of space-based surveillance. The ongoing collaboration with GomSpace not only cements their role in the burgeoning small satellite market but also highlights the potential of cubesats in addressing diverse and evolving challenges in maritime security and beyond.
