Israel’s KNIGHT Satellite Program Advances: A New Era in Defense Intelligence
February 25, 2026 – Israel
ImageSat International (TASE: ISI), a prominent entity in the domain of space-based intelligence solutions, has announced significant progress in the development of its KNIGHT satellite program. Now entering its final phases, the KNIGHT satellite is poised to enhance ISI’s operational portfolio by delivering continuous, high-resolution observation of vital targets during both day and night, as well as in adverse visibility conditions.
Enhanced Surveillance Capabilities
The KNIGHT satellite is engineered to address the challenges faced by conventional electro-optical systems, particularly in low-visibility scenarios such as haze, smoke, and fog. Its advanced features offer:
- Integrated Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) Channel: This innovation amplifies the satellite’s capacity for detection, identification, and tracking of targets.
- Artificial Intelligence in Orbit: Onboard AI processes visual data in real time, prioritizing crucial information and accelerating response times for military and security operations.
Building on Established Frameworks
Leveraging the intelligence-centric architecture established by the RUNNER satellite, KNIGHT introduces:
- Proven In-Orbit Analytics: Enhanced analytical capabilities allow for real-time tracking of movements and efficient intelligence dissemination.
- High-Resolution Imaging: A combination of 35 cm true-color imaging, dedicated SWIR, and integrated video functionalities delivers a comprehensive intelligence landscape.
Advanced Onboard Computing
The satellite’s robust computing capabilities facilitate:
- Real-Time Assessment: Instantaneous evaluation of images and videos ensures rapid decision-making.
- Autonomous Memory Management: This allows the satellite to filter out subpar data and reassign focus to priority areas without manual intervention.
- Optimized Downlink Use: Efficient data transmission supports timely intelligence sharing with operational networks.
Moreover, the flexible architecture of KNIGHT enables ongoing software updates and algorithm enhancements, thereby ensuring the satellite remains at the forefront of analytical performance throughout its operational lifespan.
Industry Confidence and Future Prospects
“Achieving recent development benchmarks underscores the maturity of the KNIGHT program and our alignment toward a launch slated for 2027,” stated Noam Segal, CEO of ImageSat International. He emphasized that KNIGHT is engineered to provide defense and security stakeholders with clearer and more continuous intelligence, regardless of temporal or environmental constraints. By merging high-resolution imaging, SWIR capabilities, video, and AI processing, it promises to bolster operational flexibility and enhance decision-making in complex environments.
As the KNIGHT program moves closer to its anticipated launch, the defense community can expect a transformative advancement in satellite reconnaissance that meets the evolving needs of modern military operations.
