Albania launches satellites to battle crime and protect borders

In a historic move, Albania launched its first two satellites, Albania 1 and Albania 2, into orbit this week from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. These satellites aim to strengthen the nation’s fight against drug cultivation and other crimes, marking a significant leap in its technological capabilities.

The satellites were part of the SpaceX Transporter-6 rideshare mission, launched from Space Launch Complex 40. Their deployment follows a $6 million agreement signed in 2022 with Satelllogic USA to establish a dedicated satellite constellation for monitoring Albania’s territory. Prime Minister Edi Rama highlighted the achievement in a Facebook post, celebrating the successful launch of Albania’s satellites aboard a Falcon 9 rocket.

The satellites will play a crucial role in combating illegal activities such as cannabis cultivation, unauthorised construction, logging, and border security breaches. Additionally, they will assist in monitoring wildfires, traffic patterns, and other critical areas. ‘From today, Albania has more high-tech capabilities to control, protect, and administer the territory, providing real-time data on key aspects for sustainable development,’ Prime Minister Rama stated.

Under the three-year deal with Satellogic, Albania will receive high-resolution satellite imagery and training for government specialists. This initiative will enhance the government’s ability to analyse satellite data and relay actionable information to relevant authorities.

Albania has long grappled with challenges related to drug cultivation and trafficking. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s 2022 World Drug Report, the country ranks among the top global producers and distributors of cannabis and is a major transit hub for cocaine. It also serves as a critical point on the Balkan Route for irregular migration.