BlackSky Gen-3 satellites will be part of a fifty-satellite constellation developed under a $1 billion investment led by a consortium of Marlan Space, Loft Orbital, Mistral AI and other global space leaders in UAE and France

BlackSky Technology Inc. a leading provider of real-time space-based intelligence, was named the exclusive provider of very high resolution electro-optical satellites, the world’s first AI-enabled satellite constellation. The announcement was made at the International Space Summit in Paris, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Marlan Space and Loft Orbital.

The initial constellation of fifty satellites will carry radar, optical and other sensors and is designed to serve users across France, Europe and the UAE. BlackSky Gen-3 satellites will provide very high-resolution imaging capability as part of an AI-enabled intelligence platform that delivers actionable insights and alerts in seconds.

“This consortium of international industry leaders brings together best-in-class AI and space technologies to accelerate the development of new applications for AI in space,” said Brian O’Toole, BlackSky Chief Executive Officer. “The program reinforces our commitment to forging long-term global partnerships that advance sovereign space capabilities, a key part of our Mission Solutions business strategy.”

Further details on the initiative are expected to be announced later this year.