Acquiring Minds Want To Know… EADS Astrium + SSTL

Here’ another major blending in our industry… EADS Astrium has signed an agreement to acquire the University of Surrey’s spin-off company, Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL), a firm that specializes in the design and manufacture of small and micro satellites. SSTL is joining EADS Astrium following a decision by the University of Surrey to sell its majority stake of circa 80 percent in the small satellite manufacturer. SSTL will remain an independent United Kingdom-based company with its individual brand and approach to space following the agreement. SSTL will benefit from access to the resources of the larger EADS Astrium, including design, manufacturing and test facilities. Astrium will gain important links with the University of Surrey to support staff training and development, also leading to greater cooperation and increased research on space technology and systems. Professor Sir Martin Sweeting, Executive Chairman of SSTL, has been an active ambassador for the UK space industry for many years and considers the acquisition as essential: “SSTL operates in a highly competitive global market. If we are to continue changing the economics of space and provide the innovative solutions our customers demand we must expand and maintain our R&D investment. This acquisition strengthens SSTL enormously whilst preserving our unique approach to space.”—Stevenage and Guildford, United Kingdom