Skynet 2B

Skynet 2B, represented here by this qualification model, was an important advance in military communications satellite technology for the UK when it was introduced in the 1970s.

Skynet was the UK's first satellite-based military communications system. Built by Marconi Space and Defence Systems and operated by the RAF, Skynet was introduced in the 1960s to collect signals intelligence for Government Communications Headquarters and to provide British armed forces with secure and encrypted communications. Skynet 2B was launched in 1974 and proved very reliable, remaining in service until it was superseded by Skynet 4B in 1988. Between 2007 and 2012 four Skynet 5 satellites went into orbit essentially in the same role as the earlier system but using next generation satellite technology to provide greater capability. Skynet 6a is currently under development and is due to enter service in 2025.