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UK Government Prepares New National Space Strategy
The UK Government is preparing to publish a new national space strategy aimed at bringing civil, commercial and defence priorities together under one clear approach.
Speaking at the Spacetide conference in Tokyo, Rebecca Evernden, Director of the UK Space Agency, said the strategy would focus on two main outcomes: economic growth and national security.
BREAKING DOWN THE UK GOVERNMENT’S PLAN
The plan is expected to concentrate on four key areas:
- Satellite communications
- UK launch capabilities
- Monitoring and protecting activity in space
- Satellite servicing, manufacturing and sustainability
The Government has already announced significant investment in defence-related space projects. This includes additional funding for satellite communications, space-based intelligence and tracking systems.
International partnerships will also form an important part of the strategy. The UK intends to continue working closely with the European Space Agency, the United States and Japan.
Japan was described as a priority partner, with both countries sharing an interest in space technology, open markets and international cooperation.
The UK Space Agency is also looking to help smaller British space businesses expand overseas. This includes introducing companies to international partners and making it easier for them to enter new markets.
One example is Astroscale, a Japanese satellite servicing company which has expanded its UK workforce from five people to nearly 200. The company was attracted by the UK’s focus on space sustainability and debris removal.
The UK Space Agency recently became part of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. Although some within the industry were concerned this could reduce the agency’s influence, Evernden said the change had created a more joined-up approach across government.
The full strategy is expected to be published shortly and should provide a clearer picture of how the UK plans to grow its space industry while strengthening national resilience.