OPTIMAS, a European project enlisting the collaboration of GMV and led by monodon by Navantia, has begun with the aim of developing an advanced free-space optical communication system for multi-domain defence applications.

This is an ambitious project that seeks to provide high-speed data transfer communications with an exceptional level of security, integrating cutting-edge encryption technologies, such as quantum key distribution (QKD).

OPTIMAS will mark a milestone in the development of airborne laser communication systems, providing secure and high-speed communications. It’s designed to operate in satellite constellations with applications for space, air (drones), naval and ground units.

The project's final demonstrator will focus on achieving high-speed, secure, bidirectional optical communications. It will enable advanced satellite pointing, acquisition and tracking capabilities in low Earth orbits (LEO). Application in medium orbits (MEO) and geostationary orbits (GEO) will be also explored, expanding the scope and possibilities of the system.

OPTIMAS has a powerful European consortium made up of 12 entities from 7 countries, highlighting a strong Spanish presence with 6 organizations involved. Among these, monodon by Navantia assumes the role of project coordinator, reaffirming Spain's leadership in advanced defence and communications technologies.

GMV will lead the development of the Work Package for Ground and Naval Studies with the objective of defining the conceptual architecture and concept of operation as the basis for the project. GMV will provide also support to System Design, System Prototyping and Testing regarding the Satellite Control Station.

The Satellite Control Station Developed by GMV will allow monitor and control the satellite in space orbit, from the point of launch, monitoring the attitude control system, power, propulsion, thermal, attitude dynamics, orbital operations, and other subsystem of this platform, using telecommands and telemetry.

The project is developed within the framework of the 2023 work program of the European defence Fund (EDF – European Défense Fund), consolidating international cooperation in technological innovation for defence.

OPTIMAS is form by: monodon by Navantia (Spain) as coordinator; CAILABS (France); Centro de Láseres Pulsados – CLPU (Spain); Tecnobit-Grupo Oesía (Spain); GMV (Portugal); Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (Spain); MBRYONICS LIMITED (Ireland); ODYSSEUS Space SA (Luxemburg); REFLEX AEROSPACE GMBH (Germany); SCHIEBEL ELEKTRONISCHE GERAETE GMBH (Austria); SENER (Spain); Universidad de Valencia (Spain); Universidad de Vigo (Spain).

OPTIMAS is positioned as a key project in the advancement of cyber-secure laser communications, consolidating European collaboration and the technological leadership of GMV in the field of multi-domain defence.