Orbex, the UK-based space launch company has announced a significant strategic realignment of its operations. This shift will see Orbex conducting initial launch operations from SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland while focusing resources on expanding its facilities in Forres and developing a new medium-lift launch vehicle, Proxima.
The decision also means that Orbex will pause the construction of its own spaceport at Sutherland, though it will retain the lease for potential future use. This announcement underscores the company's commitment to supporting the European space industry with sustainable satellite launch capabilities and creating hundreds of highly skilled jobs in Scotland.
Space Network caught up with Orbex’s Chief Commercial Officer, John Bone, for an exclusive interview.
John Bone began by outlining the rationale behind the company’s recent decisions:
“This move will allow Orbex to focus more resources on expanding our facilities in Forres as we complete the development of our micro-launcher, Prime, and embark on the design and construction of our new medium-lift vehicle, Proxima. By centralising our initial launch operations at SaxaVord Spaceport, we can concentrate on what matters most—delivering world-class launch vehicles that meet the needs of institutional and commercial customers across Europe.”
Bone acknowledged the significance of SaxaVord Spaceport in enabling this transition.
"SaxaVord is fully licensed and operational, providing us with an excellent launch platform as we progress toward our first missions. This decision allows us to direct more of our resources into advancing Orbex Prime and Proxima, enhancing our ability to meet growing market demand.”
Orbex’s decision to pause construction at Sutherland was not taken lightly, and Bone was candid about its impact:
“We understand the concerns this will raise within the Sutherland community, including our partners at the Melness Crofters’ Estate. In the coming days and weeks, we will engage in conversations to discuss this change and what it means for the region.”
Despite the pause, Orbex remains committed to the site’s potential. “We have retained the lease and will keep our options under continuous review. The flexibility to increase launch capacity in the future remains a vital component of our long-term strategy,” Bone added.
A significant element of this strategy involves the expansion of Orbex’s manufacturing facilities in Forres. Currently supporting over 140 jobs, this site is set to grow as the company ramps up production of Prime and begins development on Proxima.
“Our Forres facility will play a central role in Orbex’s future,” said Bone. “By expanding our operations, we’ll create hundreds of high-skilled, well-paid jobs while positioning Scotland as a leader in space manufacturing innovation. Proxima, in particular, will enable us to handle larger payloads and support more diverse mission types, broadening the range of capabilities we can offer to our customers.”
Orbex’s focus on its vehicles and operations comes at a critical time for the European space sector. The Proxima development aligns with broader objectives to enhance Europe’s independent launch capabilities. Bone explained:
“This strategic shift strengthens our ability to compete in the European Launcher Challenge, an ESA-led initiative designed to foster indigenous European launch solutions. By prioritising our vehicles and leveraging the advantages of SaxaVord, we’re setting Orbex up to be a pivotal player in Europe’s evolving space landscape.”
Orbex’s latest announcement marks a significant milestone for the company and the Scottish space sector. By consolidating launch operations at SaxaVord and investing heavily in Forres, Orbex is positioning itself for long-term growth while reinforcing Scotland’s reputation as a hub for space innovation.
John Bone concluded with a note of optimism:
“Our mission is to support the European space industry with reliable, sustainable launch solutions. These changes allow us to focus on that mission more effectively, ensuring we remain at the forefront of space innovation. Scotland is central to our story, and we’re proud to be driving forward its growing role in the global space sector.”
This strategic pivot not only highlights Orbex’s adaptability but also underscores the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the needs of a dynamic and competitive market. As Orbex prepares for its first launches at SaxaVord and the development of Proxima gathers pace, the future of Scottish space innovation looks brighter than ever.
Thank you to John for his time and interview.