ESA Expands Galileo Second Generation Constellation with Order for Four New Satellites

The European Space Agency (ESA) has ordered four additional Galileo Second Generation (G2) satellites, expanding the constellation to 16 satellites. These new satellites, to be delivered in 2031 and launched shortly thereafter, will feature fully digital navigation payloads, improved navigation antennas, inter-satellite links, and advanced atomic clocks. The development and qualification of the first twelve G2 satellites are nearing completion, with the first G2 launch scheduled for 2028.