French defense conglomerate Safran is in talks to acquire Polish startup Satim, a company specializing in technology that utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze satellite imagery, a capability of particular importance for military intelligence.
The company’s software, leveraging Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), can identify objects regardless of weather conditions.
Polish Startup Attracts Interest from Major Defense Player
Satim, founded by Jacek Strzelczyk, is based in Kraków and has close ties to the AGH University of Science and Technology. The firm is capable of recognizing nearly 300 different classes of objects, making it a valuable asset in the eyes of the defense industry.
Safran is a French-based global technology leader operating in the aerospace, space and defense sectors. The company is a leading manufacturer of aircraft engines (including those for the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737), gearboxes, components, and defense systems, employing over 90,000 people worldwide. Safran maintains a presence in Poland, with facilities in Rzeszów and Sędziszów Małopolski.
The potential acquisition highlights the growing demand for advanced intelligence and surveillance technologies within the defense sector. According to a statement provided to Polish business publication pb.pl, Jacek Strzelczyk, Satim’s CEO, declined to comment on the reported discussions.
Satim signed an agreement in late 2025 with German defense contractor Rheinmetall to support the development of a new generation of satellite reconnaissance systems for the German armed forces, with initial satellite production planned for the third quarter of 2026. The interest from both Rheinmetall and now Safran underscores Satim’s position as a key player in the emerging market for satellite-based intelligence solutions.
