SatixFy, an international satellite technology company, has significantly bolstered its presence in the UK since 2016.
The firm has driven innovation and growth in the UK’s space industry, attracting substantial investments and creating numerous jobs.
Establishing a Strong Footprint in the UK
Since its inception in 2012 in Hong Kong, SatixFy has made notable advancements by establishing a design centre in Israel. However, it was their strategic decision to set up operations in the UK in 2016 that marked a turning point for the company. With support from the UK Space Agency, Innovate UK, and the Department for International Trade, SatixFy now employs 77 of its 150 global employees in Farnborough and Manchester.
The significant backing from these UK bodies underpins the country’s commitment to fostering innovation within its space sector. SatixFy, by leveraging this support, has also managed to attract an impressive $20 million of investment, further solidifying its commitment to the UK market.
Innovative Developments in Satellite Technology
The establishment of the new development centre in Manchester underscores SatixFy’s commitment to cutting-edge technology. This centre is pivotal in designing space-hardened silicon chips for satellite payloads, marking a critical advancement in satellite technology.
In addition, the company has revolutionised the market by developing flat antennas, which hold significant potential. These antennas are expected to transform connectivity for Internet of Things applications, linking vehicles to the internet and enhancing user terminals for upcoming Low Earth Orbit constellations.
Graham Stuart, the Minister for Investment at the Department for International Trade, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted with the success that SatixFy have enjoyed since opening their UK operations.” His statement reflects the government’s support and optimism for innovative companies in the thriving global space market.
Collaborations and Strategic Partnerships
A fruitful collaboration has been established between SatixFy UK and the European Space Agency (ESA), leading to substantial funding commitments. The ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Satellites (ARTES) programme has provided over €30m in funding, enabling the transformation of research into viable commercial projects.
The UK, being the largest funder of this programme, demonstrates its dedication to supporting industry through the demonstration of advanced technologies, systems, services, and applications in a representative space environment. Such collaborations highlight the importance of international partnerships in achieving technological advancement and economic growth.
SatixFy UK is also investing €15 million into its UK centres and contractors, including partnerships with renowned firms such as Cadence and TVS. These investments not only bolster local engineering capabilities but also strengthen the UK’s position in the global space technology race.
Joint Ventures for Global Market Expansion
A new joint venture with Singapore Technologies Engineering (STE) has been forged, marking a pivotal moment for SatixFy UK. STE’s commitment involves a $20m investment aimed at developing and commercialising Aero antennas for the In-Flight Connectivity market.
Through this venture, SatixFy retains ownership of its technology within the UK while expanding its commercial reach globally. This strategic move is a testament to the firm’s forward-thinking approach and its ambition to become a dominant force in the aerospace communications sector.
Such partnerships are instrumental in enhancing global connectivity solutions and highlight the UK’s role as a leader in cutting-edge satellite technology.
The UK’s Industrial Strategy and Future Prospects
The UK Government’s Industrial Strategy sets a clear vision for the nation to become the world’s most innovative. As articulated by Dr Graham Turnock, the chief executive of the UK Space Agency, “SatixFy UK is an excellent example of how working together we can bring investment to the UK, attract new engineers, and support innovative space companies.”
SatixFy’s endeavours align with the UK’s ambition to capture 10 per cent of the global space market by 2030, showcasing the vital interplay between government initiatives and private sector innovation.
This strategy aims to propel the UK to the forefront of the global stage, fostering an environment where new technologies can thrive and contribute to economic growth.
SatixFy’s Commitment to Innovation and Growth
SatixFy’s investment of €15 million into its UK operations is a clear demonstration of its commitment to fostering innovation and supporting local engineering talent. By collaborating with top-tier UK contractors, the company underscores its dedication to enhancing technological capabilities within the region.
This commitment is further highlighted by their involvement in transformative projects, such as the development of flat antennas and silicon chips, which are set to revolutionise satellite communications.
A Bright Future for the UK Space Sector
The ongoing investments and partnerships spearheaded by SatixFy signal a promising future for the UK space industry. As the country continues to attract international companies and foster homegrown talent, the sector is poised for unprecedented growth.
SatixFy stands at the forefront of this exciting journey, driving innovation and setting new benchmarks for success in the global space market.
SatixFy’s strategic investments and collaborations underscore the UK’s growing influence in the global space sector.
The future of the UK space industry looks promising, with continued innovation and investment driving its expansion.
