Multimillion-pound investment gives rocket boost to South West space sector

Industry Minister Sarah Jones MP has announced that the South West will benefit from a multimillion-pound investment from leading German space company OHB. 

OHB’s initial multimillion-pound investment will create a new UK subsidiary based at Bristol and Bath Science Park to develop cutting-edge tech for satellites and spacecraft and was secured by the Department for Business and Trade working together with the Space West cluster, Invest Bristol & Bath, and the UK Space Agency. The news has stated the creation of up to 50 specialist jobs in Bristol, which will involve working on satellites and exploration spacecraft. 

Marco Fuchs, OHB CEO, said: “I am truly glad that we have finally established a presence in one of Europe’s key space markets. The Bristol region, with its high-tech cluster, provides a great environment for OHB to develop innovative and competitive space products and systems from the UK for the national and European markets.” 

West of England Mayor Dan Norris said: “Today’s announcement means more high skilled jobs for local people – and that’s fantastic news. OHB SE setting up shop in the West of England is a big win for our region and a real rocket boost for our space industry.  I’m really proud that they’ve chosen the Bristol & Bath Science Park as their UK base. We’re proving once again that this is the place to be for world-class innovation, job creation, and serious economic growth.” 

Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS welcomed the announcement: 

“The UK space sector – a jewel in the UK’s advanced manufacturing crown – has seen impressive growth in recent years. The space economy in the UK spans a wide range of capabilities employing around 50,000 people, with strengths in small satellite technology, sustainability, and emerging areas such as in-space manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.  

“Representing more than 500 businesses operating in space, ADS wholeheartedly welcomes the ongoing commitment to developing our sector throughout the country. Space will secure the UK’s domestic, future and technological advantage!” 

Colin Turner, WEAF CEO, commented: “This announcement from OHB and HM Government regarding space investment in the region further emphasises the South West’s leading position as one of Europe’s largest aerospace and advanced manufacturing hubs. We have been actively facilitating discussions aimed at strengthening the South West supply chain to support OHB’s investment and look forward to this progressing further.” 

For the press release in full, please see here: Multimillion-pound investment gives rocket boost to South West space sector – GOV.UK