Grupo Oesía Partnered With ESA on Satellite Navigation
The consortium will research using low-Earth orbit satellite signals to improve drone navigation systems.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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UAV Navigation-Grupo Oesía has launched a research project with the European Space Agency to utilize LEO communication signals for navigation. This initiative aims to provide robust positioning in environments where traditional GNSS signals are unreliable or compromised.
Why it matters
The research focuses on ensuring operational resilience in jammed or spoofed environments. By reducing reliance on standard satellite signals, the project supports European technological sovereignty and autonomy goals.
The system utilizes Ka-band signals from LEO communication constellations integrated into an autopilot system. Navigation is achieved via multi-sensor data fusion combining these signals with inertial, air, and vision-based data.
The players
UAV Navigation-Grupo Oesía
This company specializes in the development of guidance and control systems for unmanned aerial vehicles.
European Space Agency
This intergovernmental organization is dedicated to the exploration of space and the advancement of aerospace technology.
CTTC
This research institution focuses on communication technologies and geomatics.
Inster-Grupo Oesía
This entity provides satellite communication and terminal technology solutions.
SICWAVE
This organization contributes specialized technical expertise to the research consortium.
The details
The project involves integrating LEO-derived PNT observables into autopilot systems using multibeam electronically steered antennas. Algorithms perform sensor fusion to ensure stable state estimation for drones even when primary navigation signals are denied.
Timeline
October 8, 2026: The research partnership was officially announced.
The Big Picture
This collaboration reflects the ongoing shift toward multi-source positioning in the aviation sector. It marks a departure from GNSS-exclusive navigation by prioritizing the integration of commercial LEO satellite constellations into standard flight control architectures.
Future drone operators may see increased reliability in mission-critical flight tasks in remote or contested areas. This technology could eventually lead to more stable and autonomous flight experiences for professional unmanned systems.
The takeaway
This research highlights the critical importance of diversifying navigation sources for autonomous platforms in a secure digital landscape. Organizations should continue to prioritize hybrid sensor systems to mitigate the risks of signal interference in future operations.
Further reading
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