Satellite and Space Projects Newsletter July 2025

Partner and head of the group, John Worthy commented: "It is fantastic to have the depth of space sector experience which Natasha brings, at a time when the sector is evolving faster than ever before. We look forward to building on our existing strengths in supporting clients in the sector as they grasp new commercial opportunities."

Natasha Scanes said: "I am delighted to have rejoined Fieldfisher after a very rewarding 4 years in-house supporting OneWeb and Eutelsat through rapid global change and transformation. It is an incredibly exciting time for the industry, and I look forward to working with colleagues across Fieldfisher's international network to help clients navigate the commercial opportunities and evolving regulatory landscapes ahead".

Eutelsat plans €1.35 Billion capital raise: Eutelsat is planning to raise €1.35 billion through a two-part capital increase, backed by the French government and key shareholders including Bharti Space, CMA CGM, and the FSP investment fund. The French State alone is contributing over €526 million, increasing its stake from 13.6% to nearly 30%. This move is intended to reduce Eutelsat’s net debt and support the development of the OneWeb constellation and the IRIS² secure government network.

EU issues new Space Act: The European Commission has released its proposal for the EU Space Act, aiming to create a unified regulatory framework for space activities across Europe. This proposal seeks to streamline the current patchwork of national regulations, reducing administrative burdens and fostering a level playing field for space operators. The Act focuses on sustainability, resilience and safety in space and enhancing cybersecurity. Fieldfisher's commentary on what the Act means for space business will be issued shortly.

UK new industrial strategy highlights space sector: The UK's 2025 Modern Industrial Strategy outlines key priorities for strengthening the country’s high-tech industrial base, with a notable emphasis on space. A targeted £80 million funding package over five years will support capabilities such as satellite communications, in-orbit servicing, and space domain awareness, alongside efforts to establish end-to-end satellite manufacturing and launch capabilities within the UK.

The strategy is supported by enhanced access to capital through initiatives like the Private Investment Framework for Space and the National Space Innovation Programme, with up to £135 million in public funding to encourage private investment.

UK strengthens commercial launch liability framework: The Space Industry (Indemnities) Bill seeks to modernise the legal framework governing liability and indemnity for commercial space launches conducted from UK territory. Responding to industry requests, it will include a mandatory limit on launch operator liability under Space Industry Act licences.

European space industry awaits decision on strategic consolidation: Airbus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space, and Leonardo are nearing a decision on whether to combine their space divisions. This decision, expected by the end of July, aims to create a single larger space venture to better compete with other major satellite market players. The companies have been discussing this merger, known as Project Bromo, since last year. The deal would aim to enhance competitiveness and create synergies. However, the process could take up to two years to clear European antitrust reviews.

ESA unveils €1.5 Billion Earth observation programme to strengthen European resilience: The European Space Agency (ESA) is moving ahead with the European Resilience from Space (ERS) programme, a new high-resolution satellite constellation designed to deliver near real-time imagery for both civil and military use.

This initiative forms part of the Earth Observation Government Service (EOGS) and is included in ESA’s broader three-year funding package of €23 billion, marking a 36% increase from 2022. ESA is seeking €1.5 billion from its 23 member states to support ERS, with additional backing expected from the European Commission. The ERS programme is a key component of a wider “system of systems” that includes the IRIS² secure connectivity constellation and a new low Earth orbit positioning, navigation and timing system.

NATO releases first commercial space strategy: In issuing its first Commercial Space Strategy, NATO is aiming at integrating commercial solutions more flexibly and creating more business opportunities. Developed in consultation with industry, the strategy supports NATO's "Overarching Space Policy" and includes three strategic objectives: leveraging commercial solutions, ensuring continuous access during peacetime, crisis, and conflict, and building coherent relationships with the commercial sector. The strategy addresses contract opportunities, flexible financing models, and the importance of space in NATO exercises.

Successful launch for Britain's first 'space factory': Cardiff-based startup Space Forge has successfully launched the UK's first manufacturing satellite, ForgeStar-1, into orbit. This groundbreaking mission, part of SpaceX's Transporter-14 rideshare, aims to produce advanced materials in the unique conditions of space. These crystals can be used as seeds to grow even more advanced materials, potentially transforming industries such as semiconductor manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. Although ForgeStar-1 will be deliberately burned up after its mission, the data collected will pave the way for future satellites designed to return materials safely to Earth.