Sovereign Space Access Is Critical for UK’s National Security and Defence, Skyrora CEO Warns

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement promised the biggest increase in UK defence spending since the Cold War. A new innovation fund and a commitment to spend 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2027 are central to the government’s strategy to make Britain a “defence industrial superpower.”

But one of the UK’s leading space companies has warned that the plans will fall short unless space is placed at the heart of defence strategy.

Volodymyr Levykin, CEO and founder of Scottish launch firm Skyrora, said the government is missing a critical opportunity to tie national security with investment in sovereign space capabilities.

“The Government’s newly announced defence innovation fund and commitment to the biggest defence spending increase since the end of the Cold War demonstrate where defence sits on the political agenda,’ Levykin said.

“However, now is the time for the UK to tap into the strength of its space sector to develop sovereign defence capabilities, if it is to truly become a defence industrial superpower.”

‘Space is the First Battlefield’: The Missing Link in the UK’s Defence Revolution

In her statement to Parliament, Reeves said that £400 million will be ring-fenced within the Ministry of Defence for innovation, with a focus on emerging technologies such as drones and AI. She also pledged to reform the defence procurement system and give UK firms more access to contracts.

Levykin welcomed these moves but stressed that space must not be overlooked.

“Space is the great enabler between industries and the first battlefield for effective defence strategies,’ he said.

“If the UK invests more in sovereign launch capabilities, we would not depend on third parties for satellite-based activities such as intelligence, reconnaissance and communications.”

The UK currently relies heavily on foreign launch providers. Skyrora has been campaigning for stronger support for domestic space infrastructure, including launch-from-UK options.

Linking Innovation and Economic Growth

As the Chancellor continues to make the case for long-term investment to secure the UK’s economic future, Levykin said funding space will pay off far beyond defence.

“Any investment into space catalyses tech development, so investing more in defence (read space) speeds up innovation and the production process,’ he said.

“Ultimately, more investment in defence should automatically mean more investment in space. In turn, we will foster greater innovation, boost the economy, and keep the nation safe.”

With the Autumn Budget likely to bring further decisions on spending priorities, companies like Skyrora are hoping the government will broaden its definition of defence innovation and recognise space as a national asset.