The UK Space Agency (UKSA) has announced a £50 million funding for innovative projects that will help support the UK’s satellite communications industry.

Funding is available for a wide range of projects, such as developing new satellite constellations, the ground systems needed to access them, or whole end-to-end systems delivering new services to customers.

Developing UK space capabilities

Science Minister George Freeman said: “Developing UK space capabilities and maximising commercial opportunities are key to the National Space Strategy, as part of our plans to become a leading power in space and build on a sector already worth £16.5 billion to the UK economy.

“We are determined to invest in our world class satellite technology sector, which is why I committed £1.8 billion for UK participation in ESA programmes over the next five years and recently committed £190 million specifically to participate in international telecommunications missions.

“This latest £50 million UK Space Agency funding will help more companies into our vibrant fast growth UK space telecoms sector, helping drive both growth and wider UK economic resilience.”

The UK already has a fast-growing satellite communications industry, with services contributing £10.4 billion to the economy and to the creation of more than 26,600 jobs.

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