Arianespace placed three French military intelligence satellites in orbit on Tuesday using the European Vega rocket.

The craft, which was on its 20th flight, took off from the Kourou space center in French Guiana at around 6.30am local time (10.30am Paris time).

The three small 450 kg satellites belong to the Ceres project, acronym for Space Electromagnetic Intelligence Capability.

They are intended to fly in formation in order to collect data allowing to "characterize and locate transmitters", explains Arianesapace in a press release.

For example, they can detect enemy air defense batteries or communication centers anytime, anywhere in the world.

One, two, three… 🛰️🛰️🛰️


Separation confirmed for our three passengers!


CERES can now begin the next step of its incredible journey that will serve & support France's sovereignty! # VV20 @CNES @DGA @Avio_Group @Armee_de_lair @Armees_Gouv @AirbusSpace @ESA @EuropeSpacePort pic.twitter.com/ik0UuxeNsg

- Arianespace (@Arianespace) November 16, 2021

An advanced intelligence system

France is now the only European country to join the three countries with the most advanced information systems of electromagnetic origin.

Namely the United States, Russia and China.

The project management of the space part is provided by Airbus Defense and Space, with Thales Defense Mission System.

This was the 12th launch of 2021 for Arianespace, and the third with Vega.

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