Galileo Navigation System Advances with Next-Generation Satellites

The European Galileo satellite navigation system continues its evolution, building upon the foundation of its First Generation satellites. As of September 2025, these initial satellites remain crucial, supporting over five billion users globally with precise positioning and timing data.

A significant step towards enhanced capabilities was taken in December 2023 when Airbus commenced full production of six Galileo Second Generation (G2) satellites. These advanced spacecraft are being engineered with fully digital payloads, electric propulsion, and more powerful navigation antennas, promising a substantial upgrade in system performance. The initial deployment and validation of the G2 System are anticipated in the coming years.

Further strengthening the constellation's robustness, two new Galileo satellites were successfully launched in April 2024. Following comprehensive in-orbit testing, these satellites officially entered service on September 5, 2024, and are now managed by the EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA). This expansion underscores Europe's commitment to reinforcing Galileo's reliability, a critical factor as satellite navigation underpins approximately 10% of the EU's yearly GDP.

The first launch of the G2 satellites is slated for 2026, utilizing the Ariane 6 rocket, which had its inaugural flight in July 2024, marking Europe's continued autonomous access to space. Airbus is progressing rapidly with the production of twelve G2 satellites, with compatibility tests with ground infrastructure underway since September 2024. These G2 satellites, developed by both Airbus and Thales Alenia Space, will integrate seamlessly with the existing fleet, introducing enhanced features such as inter-satellite links and advanced atomic clock configurations. The European Space Agency (ESA) and its partners remain dedicated to the ongoing evolution of the Galileo system, ensuring it meets the escalating global demand for accurate and dependable positioning and timing information, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of modern navigation and a testament to European innovation in space technology.