PLD Space and Sateliot have signed a commercial agreement to launch the first two high-capacity direct-to-device 5G satellites as part of what the companies describe as the first fully private Spanish space mission. The contract covers the launch and deployment of two Tritó satellites into low Earth orbit on a dedicated 2027 mission using PLD Space’s MIURA 5 launcher.
Each Tritó satellite weighs about 160 kg and is designed to expand next-generation connectivity services. The mission highlights Spain’s growing role in the space sector by encompassing the full value chain — from manufacturing and launch to operations and commercialisation — and reflects broader ambitions to strengthen European capabilities in space transportation and communications.
Sateliot selected PLD Space for its ability to provide a dedicated launch service tailored to specific deployment needs. By avoiding rideshare constraints common in shared launches, the operator gains greater scheduling control and optimised orbital insertion, which the companies said offers a competitive advantage in deploying satellite infrastructure.
MIURA 5 is a reusable, two-stage orbital launcher developed for small satellites, forming part of PLD Space’s broader strategy to deliver customised and reliable access to space while supporting European technological autonomy. The vehicle is intended to serve commercial and institutional missions requiring precision deployment.
Sateliot’s Tritó satellites are engineered to significantly increase payload performance, targeting defense, security and critical communications markets. In addition to enabling dual connectivity for Internet of Things devices, the satellites support direct-to-device links for mobile users, providing 5G-based data, voice and video services. The platform is designed to maintain connectivity in emergency or infrastructure-limited environments, supporting civil protection and defense operations.
Raúl Verdú, co-founder and Chief Business Development Officer of PLD Space, said: “I founded PLD Space 14 years ago to make this happen. Our alliance with Sateliot is a key milestone for the Spanish and European space ecosystem. It demonstrates the ability of two national companies to break new ground and deliver unprecedented vertically integrated solutions. The level of competitiveness of this approach is unmatched in our sector. For PLD Space, the priority is ensuring that Sateliot’s satellites reach the required orbit at the required time.”
Jaume Sanpera, co-founder and CEO of Sateliot, added: “With this agreement, we fulfill two core principles we have upheld since launching Sateliot: autonomy and national and European sovereignty. By launching our satellites with a Spanish company like ours, we are supporting the ‘Marca España’ and ensuring D2D connectivity worldwide and in any scenario, with enhanced capabilities for defense and security as well as civil use. This positions us as a strategic backup when terrestrial networks are unavailable or fail.”
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