The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has confirmed its ongoing commitment to developing a domestic space launch capability, underscoring both its strategic value to the UK and its role in bolstering NATO’s space capabilities.
In a recent written response to a question posed by James Cartlidge MP, the Secretary of State for Defence, Maria Eagle, confirmed that satellite launch demand across Europe is set to reach a staggering $50 billion by 2033. The Defence Minister explained that even capturing just 2% of this market could generate around $1 billion in revenue for the UK economy.
“This is an exciting opportunity for the UK to position itself as a global player in the space industry, while also ensuring long-term strategic independence,” Eagle commented.
Beyond the commercial benefits, Eagle highlighted that having sovereign launch capabilities would offer significant long-term strategic advantages for the UK, allowing the nation to maintain control over critical space assets and support NATO’s evolving space needs.
“We are working alongside both industry leaders and international partners to develop a sustainable and competitive UK launch industry,” she added, reflecting the government’s desire to remain at the forefront of space exploration and technology.
The UK’s involvement in NATO’s STARLIFT programme, which aims to enhance the alliance’s collective ability to launch and sustain space assets, was also confirmed. Eagle stressed the importance of this initiative, stating that it would ensure the UK and its NATO allies are prepared to meet future space launch requirements as global space activities continue to grow.
With space becoming an increasingly important domain for both national security and economic development, the UK’s ambition to build and sustain a robust space launch capability looks set to play a pivotal role in both commercial and strategic endeavours, positioning the UK as a key player in the rapidly expanding space industry.
