NATO 3 Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-20.
The NATO 3 bus accounts for 4 cataloged objects, of which 4 are in orbit and 0 are active. Most are built by FORDA. The largest operator on this bus is NICS. The first launched in 1976, the most recent in 1984.
4
In orbit
0
Active
4
Total launched
0
Reentered
NATO 3 launched per year
Still in orbit Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged NATO 3 satellites.
| Manufacturer | FORDA |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Military communication |
| Launch mass | 307 kg |
| Dry mass | 279 kg |
| Length | 2.9 m |
| Diameter | 2.2 m |
| Span | 2.9 m |
| Shape | Cyl |
| Power | Solar cells (body mounted), batteries |
| Propulsion | SVM-6 |
| Design life | 7 years |
| Equipment | 2 transponders operating in the 7 to 8 GHz region |
| Typical orbit | 1442 min period, 5° inclination |
Top operators
NICS 4
Top countries
I-NATO 4
NATO 3 satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NATO 3D NATO 3D | 15391 | 1984-115A | NICS | Nov 14, 1984 | 1517 min, 14.3° | Inactive | ◉ |
| NATO 3C NATO 3C | 11115 | 1978-106A | NICS | Nov 19, 1978 | 1462 min, 9.1° | Inactive | ◉ |
| NATO 3B NATO 3B | 09785 | 1977-005A | NICS | Jan 28, 1977 | 1512 min, 8.1° | Inactive | ◉ |
| NATO 3A NATO 3A | 08808 | 1976-035A | NICS | Apr 22, 1976 | 1442 min, 4.9° | Inactive | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many NATO 3 satellites are there?
The catalog lists 4 objects built on the NATO 3 bus. 4 are in orbit and 0 have reentered.
How many NATO 3 satellites are in orbit?
4 NATO 3 objects are currently in orbit, of which 0 carry an active status.
Who builds the NATO 3 bus?
The NATO 3 bus is most commonly built by FORDA.
When did the first NATO 3 satellite launch?
The first cataloged NATO 3 satellite launched in 1976, and the most recent in 1984.