RBC Signals is bolstering its global reach with the acquisition of ten six-meter S-band and X-band satellite-tracking antennas from Microsoft. This strategic move significantly expands the company's ground station network, enhancing its ability to serve both government and commercial clients.
“These antennas are ideal for our government and commercial customers flying individual satellites as well as constellations in a wide variety of orbits,” stated Ron Faith, CEO of RBC Signals. The acquisition directly addresses the escalating demand for reliable S-band and X-band communication, particularly crucial for supporting small satellites in low Earth orbit.
The geographically diverse placement of the antennas—spanning North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia—will also improve communication with satellites in medium-Earth and geostationary orbits, as well as spacecraft involved in rendezvous-and-proximity operations in equatorial orbits. This expanded coverage ensures comprehensive support across a wide spectrum of orbital applications.
Founded in 2025, RBC Signals provides Ground Station as a Service (GSaaS). The Libra Group, a subsidiary of Space Leasing International (SLI), facilitated the antenna acquisition, with SLI retaining ownership of the assets. RBC Signals will oversee the management and maintenance under an operating lease agreement. Microsoft's divestment of the antennas aligns with its focus on core business operations.
“We are excited that RBC Signals’ GSaaS offering will be available in the Azure Marketplace,” commented Douglas Phillips, Microsoft corporate vice president. “This will enable our joint customers to seamlessly integrate their satellite data with Azure’s AI-enhanced cloud capabilities and products, unlocking new insights and accelerating innovation.”