Skyrora ready to protect UK space capabilities by expressing interest in acquiring Orbex assets
After a board meeting, Skyrora confirms it intends to explore the purchase of select Orbex assets, including the Sutherland Spaceport, following yesterday’s announcement that the company has appointed administrators.
Skyrora is exploring an asset acquisition which would see the established operator invest up to £10m, subject to discussions with the appointed administrators and completion of the necessary due diligence and legal processes.
Skyrora believes that securing select assets is vital to preserving UK space capability, protecting national critical infrastructure, and ensuring that technology and IP developed in the UK remains under UK ownership. This safeguards the product of the taxpayer funds historically injected into Orbex.
Dr Jack-James Marlow, COO at Skyrora said: “Skyrora is committed to delivering sovereign launch capability for the UK; providing reliable, independent access to space is crucial to the UK’s strategic interests. Launch will not only unlock commercial activity for companies that need to access space and help achieve the government’s objectives for becoming a global player in the space sector, but it is also a strategic defence consideration.
As the only UK company with a domestic launch license and both manufacturing and testing capabilities, Skyrora is best placed to take over Orbex’s assets and is proud to be leading launch activity from the UK.”
Disclaimer: This announcement is a preliminary expression of interest only. It is not an offer and does not create any legal or binding obligations. Any potential transaction would depend on further discussions, due diligence, and the negotiation and execution of definitive agreements. No person or party should seek to rely on this announcement as a commitment to proceed.
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