Key Takeaways
- Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury warns against choosing US firm Lockheed Martin for Skynet satellite contract.
- Fears UK could lose key role in European space industry if contract is awarded to US firm.
- Contract worth £2.4bn and could affect UK's military satellite capabilities for decades.
Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury has penned a letter to UK Business Secretary Andy Burnham, urging caution against awarding the Skynet satellite contract to US firm Lockheed Martin. The letter highlights the potential long-term implications for the UK's position in the European space industry.
According to sources, Faury’s letter emphasizes that the choice of provider for the Skynet system could have significant repercussions for decades to come, particularly in terms of the UK’s military satellite capabilities within Europe.
The Skynet contract, valued at £2.4 billion, is a crucial deal that could determine the future of the UK’s involvement in the European space sector. Airbus, a major player in the European space industry, is lobbying to secure the contract for itself, citing the potential loss of a key role in the sector if the US firm is chosen.
In his letter, Faury suggests that the decision could have far-reaching consequences, impacting the UK’s strategic position in the European space industry for years to come. He argues that the UK should prioritize its own capabilities and interests over the potential benefits of a US firm.
The UK government is currently in the final stages of deciding on the provider for the Skynet 6 and 7 satellites, which are part of the ongoing Skynet programme. The decision is expected to be made in the coming weeks, with significant implications for both the UK and the European space industry.
Airbus, headquartered in France, has been a key player in the European space industry for decades. The company is keen to maintain its position and influence, particularly in the military satellite sector, where it has established a strong presence.
The UK government has not yet commented on Faury’s letter or the ongoing negotiations for the Skynet contract. However, the letter underscores the importance of the decision and the potential impact on the UK’s strategic interests in the space sector.
The UK’s involvement in the European space industry is seen as crucial for maintaining its military capabilities and strategic autonomy. The decision on the Skynet contract could therefore have significant implications for the future of the UK’s space sector.
