Strengthening Ties Through Space: UK and South Africa Explore Shared Opportunities in the Global Space Economy
Marketing
New Comparative Study Highlights Collaboration for Growth, Innovation, and Inclusion
The Satellite Applications Catapult is pleased to announce the release of a new report, UK–South Africa Space Sector Comparative Study, highlighting strategic opportunities for collaboration between two dynamic space nations.
Commissioned by the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), this report was developed in response to the signing of a Science Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UK and South Africa – an agreement that marked a mutual commitment to deepening collaboration in the space sector. Recognising the need for a clearer understanding of South Africa’s space ecosystem and its alignment with UK strategic priorities, the study explores the historical evolution of both nations’ space sectors, their respective ambitions, and the potential for partnership in areas such as emerging technologies, sustainable development, and inclusive innovation. By filling this critical knowledge gap, the report provides an evidence base to guide future cooperation and unlock new opportunities in the global space economy.
Unlocking Mutual Strengths
The UK’s leadership in satellite manufacturing, data analytics, and low Earth orbit (LEO) connectivity is complemented by South Africa’s expertise in Earth Observation, radio astronomy, and regional applications for agriculture and disaster response. By aligning capabilities and strategic priorities, the two countries are well-positioned to co-develop impactful solutions. The report identifies several domains where joint innovation could yield high-value outcomes:
- Earth Observation & Geospatial Intelligence
- Climate Resilience
- Satellite-Based Telecommunications
- Small Satellite Manufacturing & Nanosatellite Development
- Launch capability
- Space Sustainability & Debris Mitigation
- Skills Development & Technology Transfer
Building a More Inclusive Global Space Economy
With the global space sector rapidly evolving, the report identifies this partnership as a model for inclusive and impact-driven space collaboration. Joint programmes can serve both nations’ strategic interests while contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including digital inclusion, climate action, and disaster resilience.
Patrick Stewart, Ecosystem Insights Lead at the Satellite Applications Catapult and lead author of the report, said: “This study not only highlights the strengths of the UK and South African space sectors, but demonstrates the power of international partnerships in driving innovation and creating impact. By working together, the UK and South Africa can accelerate their respective ambitions and play a leading role in addressing shared global challenges.”
Loice Alusala, Science and Technology Network Officer at the British High Commission in Pretoria, said: “This report is an invaluable tool that underscores the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange to strengthen our shared endeavours in the evolving space ecosystem. We appreciate the thorough analysis presented as it lays the groundwork for future initiatives and investments in the space sector across our two nations.”
Antony Phillipson CMG, British High Commissioner to South Africa, commented: “This report is a timely and insightful contribution that highlights the value of UK–South Africa collaboration in the space sector. By providing a clearer picture of our respective strengths and shared opportunities, it offers a strong foundation for future engagement, innovation, and investment. We welcome its findings and the role it can play in shaping a more connected and inclusive space partnership”
Kaizer Moroka, Deputy Director of Space Science at South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), said: “South Africa welcomes this comparative study as a strategic tool to deepen our bilateral engagement with the UK and expand our contribution to global space innovation. Collaboration is essential for Africa’s participation in the evolving space economy.”
Designed as a practical resource for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers, the UK–South Africa Space Sector Comparative Study offers a clear, evidence-based foundation for future collaboration. It can be used to inform strategic planning, shape bilateral initiatives, support funding and investment decisions, and guide policy development across areas such as Earth Observation, telecommunications, skills development, and sustainability. Crucially, the report fills a longstanding knowledge gap, highlighting complementary strengths and shared ambitions. At a time when global cooperation is vital to addressing challenges like climate resilience, digital inclusion, and sustainable development, this study not only enables informed action but also underscores the importance of equitable, innovation-led partnerships in building a more inclusive space economy.
As space becomes an increasingly vital enabler of economic and societal development, partnerships like these are essential to ensuring inclusive and sustainable progress. The Satellite Applications Catapult looks forward to continuing to support international collaboration that puts innovation into action.
Read the Report
Explore the full findings and recommendations in the UK–South Africa Space Sector Comparative Study.
