The UK government has announced a £30m investment in SaxaVord Spaceport, located in Unst, Shetland, as part of its newly unveiled national space strategy. The funding is intended to support the construction of two additional launchpads and a second hangar, with officials expecting the public contribution to attract a further £30m in private capital.
SaxaVord, which holds the UK’s first full spaceport license, is authorized for up to 30 rocket launches annually. It is situated on the site of a former Royal Air Force base and is recognized as the northernmost spaceport in the United Kingdom.
Scott Hammond, chief executive of SaxaVord, described the announcement as a “hugely significant” vote of confidence. He emphasized that the project aims to establish a durable commercial enterprise rather than focusing solely on individual missions.
“We are building the spaceport for the thousandth as much as the first launch,” Hammond stated. “We’re trying to create a successful, safe and sustainable business. This is direct investment into Shetland.”
Two German firms have already signed agreements to utilize the facility. Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) is preparing for its inaugural vertical orbital test flight from British soil. However, plans for an August test were recently paused after RFA reported encountering technical issues. A five-week launch window had been scheduled, involving temporary traffic restrictions.
Meanwhile, HyImpulse Technologies GmbH intends to launch the second flight of its SR75 suborbital vehicle from Shetland later this year. The company recently secured over €50m in investment.
Government ministers highlighted that space is an increasingly vital domain for national security and economic growth. A spokesperson noted the strategy aims to reduce reliance on overseas launch sites and create domestic jobs.
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander pointed out that Scotland currently produces more satellites than any other European region. He added that the investment positions SaxaVord to potentially deliver up to three-quarters of Europe’s orbital launch slots, underlining the strategic importance of defense and economic development.
Lise Kaae, chief executive of Heartland, which holds a majority stake in SaxaVord through Wild Ventures, welcomed the government’s role as both investor and partner. The investment remains subject to final due diligence and sign-off.
This funding represents a portion of a broader £148m investment across Europe designed to assist UK space technology companies in securing more contracts.
Goodbye to quiet nights; hello to sonic booms over Unst. Hope the regulations are strict enough.
Northernmost spaceport in the UK? Sign me up for the launch parties!
£30m is a start, but can they compete with established spaceports in Florida and French Guiana?
Exciting news! I wonder if the increased air traffic will disturb the local wildlife?
Finally, something positive for Shetland. Let’s hope this creates real local jobs, not just headlines.