Heriot-Watt University, as part of a UK consortium led by AAC Clyde Space, has secured funding from UK Space Agency through ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunication Systems (ARTES) Partnership Project programme.
The European Space Agency (ESA) and AAC Clyde Space, a New Space company specialising in small satellite technologies, have jointly signed a contract for the first phase of satellite constellation project INFLECION. The initiative will transform Maritime Domain Awareness – the understanding of activities at sea – by enhancing safety, efficiency, compliance, and environmental sustainability in maritime operations
The proposed €30 million project will be co-funded by the UK Space Agency through ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunication Systems (ARTES) Partnership Project programme within the agency’s Connectivity and Secure Communications directorate. The project will deliver three crucial services:
- Improve operational efficiency by helping vessels optimise routes and achieve just-in-time arrivals
- Enhance maritime security through AI-powered satellite surveillance to combat smuggling and illegal fishing
- Support environmental sustainability by protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring compliance with regulations
The system combines three key technologies: VHF Data Exchange System (VDES), enabling reliable two-way data exchange between ships, satellites, and shore stations; Signal Intelligence (SIGINT), which detects and analyses electronic signals to identify vessels engaged in illegal activities; and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), providing continuous surveillance of shipping lanes and coastal areas in all weather conditions.
AAC Clyde Space leads a consortium of UK organisations, including AST Marine, Bright Ascension, Craft Prospect, Heriot Watt University, Horizon Technologies, ICEYE UK, Omanos Analytics, Nash Maritime, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Saab UK, and University of Strathclyde.
Phase I: March 1st, 2025 to August 31st, 2025
WP Lead at HWU: Dr Yuan Ding, Prof. George Goussetis (from EPS), Prof. Michel Kaiser (from ILES), and Sophie Cox (from Business & Enterprise)
ESA – INFLECION project set to transform maritime safety and sustainability from space