Safran, through its Syrlinks brand, which specializes in space communication technologies, announces that the Synchrocube payload, onboard the Pandore satellite built and operated by U-SPACE, is operating normally. This success marks a major strategic step forward for European space sovereignty.
Synchrocube represents a synchronization technology at the heart of critical infrastructure. Developed under the Syrlinks brand, it provides an ultra-precise time reference capable of functioning even in the event of jamming of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). This capability is essential for ensuring service continuity in key sectors such as telecommunications, energy, smart transportation, and finance.
This marks a European first in technological autonomy. Synchrocube is fully aligned with the strategic objectives of space sovereignty pursued by Europe under the France Relance recovery plan. It is the first in-flight demonstration of a European LEO-PNT (Low Earth Orbit – Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) payload.
This breakthrough positions Europe at the forefront of independent and resilient space systems that complement existing GNSS networks.
This success marks a major milestone for Safran. For the first time, the Group has designed a comprehensive solution combining an on-board payload and a ground station, enabling it to control the end-to-end data chain, from space to the ground. This achievement reinforces Safran’s role as a key player in technological innovation addressing the challenges of resilience and space sovereignty.
“Synchrocube demonstrates our ability to deliver sovereign and mission-critical solutions in the space sector. It is a source of pride for our teams and a strong signal to the European industry. With this success, Safran demonstrates not only its mastery of innovative synchronization technologies, but also its ability to anticipate and respond to the new needs of the space ecosystem by offering solutions tailored to the challenges of resilience, security, and strategic autonomy,” said Jean-Marie Bétermier, Director of Space at Safran Electronics & Defense.
With other projects already underway, notably satellite constellations being developed with the United Arab Emirates and NSSTC—to which Safran will supply a LEO-PNT payload—this success further strengthens the Group’s position as a strategic player in LEO-PNT solutions on an international scale.
About Safran
Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the fields of aerospace (propulsion, equipment, and interiors), space, and defense. Its mission: to make a lasting contribution to a safer world, where air travel becomes increasingly environmentally friendly, comfortable, and accessible. With a presence on every continent, the Group employs 100,000 people and generated revenue of €27.3 billion in 2024. It holds, either alone or in partnership, leading global or European positions in its markets.
Safran is listed on Euronext Paris and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices
Safran Electronics & Defense offers its customers embedded intelligence solutions that enable them to understand their environment, reduce their mental workload, and maintain control of their trajectory even in critical situations, across all domains: land, sea, air, and space. The company draws on the expertise of its 13,000 employees to fulfill three key functions: observe, decide, and guide, in both the civil and military markets.
Press Contact:
Safran Electronics & Defense Media Relations, Lucie Bâton, lucie.baton@safrangroup.com, +33 6 30 27 71 41