Yesterday, SSC had the honor to welcome H.E. The Ambassador of UK to Sweden as well as the Chief of the Swedish Air Force to Esrange Space Center. Focusing on international collaboration, competitiveness and security – aiming to strengthen European space capabilities and transatlantic link – the strategic importance of orbital launch capabilities in northern Sweden was emphasized.

With its strategic location and versatile capabilities, Esrange is an important asset for European and international collaboration in both commercial and military space missions. While a large proportion of our daily societal functions is already dependent on seamless space infrastructure, an additional 18,000 small satellites are expected to be needed in a few years’ time. In this, the forthcoming orbital launches from Esrange will be instrumental in adding satellite capability for the benefit of European security and competitiveness.

”The unique capabilities at Esrange are significantly important for international space research, as well as the Swedish total defense where it forms an asset for international security. We are ready to contribute further commercially, military and dual use,” said Karin Holmqvist, Head of Public and Governmental Affairs at SSC.

“We welcome this opportunity to develop the conversation between the UK and Sweden on space. This visit highlights our shared interests on defense and scientific research, and the need for innovation as space nations,” said H.E. Samantha Job, UK Ambassador to Sweden.

”Earlier this year, the Swedish Ministry of Defense released its space strategy for defense and security. It’s obvious that Esrange is an important strategic asset through its capability to launch satellites which gives us and our allies’ access to space,” LtCol Johan Nyström, chief Space Division Swedish Air Force.

Media contact:
Philip Ohlsson, Head of Press & PR, +46 (0)70 721 70 26, philip.ohlsson@sscspace.com