Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) welcomes the recommendations contained in the Space “Innovation and Growth Strategy” document announced today by UKspace President, Andy Green, and believes that these are fundamental to successfully growing the UK space sector, where SSTL is an established contributor.
SSTL is the world’s leading small satellite company and has reported a year-on-year growth over the last ten years, with over 90% of earnings resulting from export orders, a reflection of the UK’s vibrant and innovative space industry.
SSTL fully supports all the recommendations in the report with special interest in the establishment of a fully resourced National Space Growth Programme to enable the UK to seize growth opportunities that require bi-lateral collaboration with other Space nations and the recommendation to promote investment in a UK Space Port, which could ultimately provide new launch opportunities for small satellites.
Universities and Science Minister David Willetts, said: "Space is one of the eight great technologies of the future and I want to make the UK the best place to grow existing and new businesses in the world. I share the Space Leadership Council’s vision to encourage billions of pounds worth of new exports, to create up to 100,000 skilled jobs and contribute to a vibrant regional small business sector spread across the UK, ensuring we remain competitive in the global space market."