Guidance

Unlocking Space One Stop Shop for Information

Updated 4 August 2026

1. Context

The Unlocking Space One Stop Shop for Information is part of the Unlocking Space for Defence programme, designed to support organisations already working, or aiming to work, across civil and defence space with relevant information about a range of topics, such as security clearance, commercial information, and regulations.  

The topics covered on the Unlocking Space One Stop Shop for Information webpage were selected based on the information gaps highlighted by industry responses collected as part of the Unlocking Space Request for Information (RFI), launched in 2024.  

The aim of the webpage is to summarise information from across government departments to raise awareness of the guidance, training, and support already available for space sector organisations operating across civil and defence space, and to make this information easily accessible. This page will be regularly reviewed and updated to incorporate other relevant information.

2. The UK Space Agency

The UK Space Agency supports the government to boost UK prosperity, understand the Universe, and protect our planet and outer space. It is an executive Agency of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and primarily supports the delivery of the National Space Strategy.  

It nurtures a thriving space ecosystem – a network of investors, scientists, engineers, academia and research labs – and a sector that generates an annual income of £18.9 billion and employs 52,000 people across the country. 

Find out more about the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.   

2.1 The Unlocking Space Portfolio 

The Unlocking Space Portfolio is made up of four main workstreams, which are:

• Unlocking Space for Defence 

• Unlocking Space for Business  

• Unlocking Space for Government  

• Unlocking Space for Investment  

Find out more about the Unlocking Space Portfolio.

Register for the Unlocking Space quarterly newsletter to receive updates, insights and opportunities tailored for organisations interested in operating across civil and defence space. Register here

2.2 Unlocking Space for Defence

The government has committed in the National Space Strategy in Action, Defence Space Strategy, and the Space Industrial Plan to a cross-departmental approach on space for national security and dual use technology. It has also committed to identifying new opportunities for defence space and to embed the concept within defence capability management.  

To meet these commitments, the UK Space Agency developed a programme that supports this priority, and the Unlocking Space for Defence (USD) team is delivering a set of interventions to support these objectives.  

The Unlocking Space for Defence workstream of the programme aims to improve civil and defence collaboration for space, support the UK space sector to develop dual-use technology, and foster capabilities that serve both defence and civilian sectors.  

The programme aims to: 

• raise awareness and provide information to help UK organisations working across civil and defence space navigate the complexities of both sectors

• enhance public services and provide clearer demand signals for industry by enhancing strategic alignment between civilian and defence space

• support the growth of UK space companies through funding and investment opportunities

• improve civil and defence funding collaboration and strategic coordination to support space for national security

2.3 Unlocking Space for Business

Unlocking Space for Business is a UK Space Agency programme aiming to raise the UK space sector’s customer base by supporting businesses in the financial services and transport & logistics sectors to deliver operational, customer and environmental benefits through the use of innovative satellite solutions.  

Since launching in October 2023, the programme has engaged more than 350 organisations through initiatives including in-person networking events, customised exploration workshops and government funding for pilot projects. 

2.4 Unlocking Space for Government

Unlocking Space for Government is a UK Space Agency strategic initiative aimed at driving up the adoption of space-enabled data, products and services across the public sector, harnessing the UK’s satellite-enabled capabilities to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of UK Government services.   

This programme seeks to improve delivery of public services, ranging from environmental monitoring, urban planning and healthcare, to disaster management. It will also strengthen the UK’s position as a leader in space technology for applications that create positive social, environmental, safety and security, and economic impact.

Find out more about Unlocking Space for Government.

2.5 Unlocking Space for Investment

Unlocking Space for Investment aims to drive private investment into the UK space sector by addressing barriers related to access to finance, maximising the impact of public investments. To bridge the access to finance gap in the sector, the programme is delivering four key interventions: the Business & Investor Pathway (BIP), the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S) Space Portfolio, the Space Investment Day and the Space Investment Network. 

3. National Space Operations Centre (NSpOC) 

NSpOC is a joint capability developed by the UK Space Agency and the UK Space Command in partnership with the Met Office which combines and coordinates civil and military space domain awareness capabilities to enable UK space operations and protect our interests in space and on Earth from space related threats, risks, and hazards. NSpOC periodically issues contracts and grants for relevant activities.  

As part of a collaboration exercise with relevant government departments, a set of Space Domain Awareness requirements to inform industry of potential future requirements has been approved by all relevant UK Government stakeholder organisations in a published document. It will be subject to regular review, and shared where possible, to keep pace with operational and technological advances in a rapidly changing domain. 

4. UK Space Command 

UK Space Command’s mission is to:

Protect and defend our national and military space interests, and enable our forces to operate globally.

UK Space Command is the defence lead for space operations, space workforce and space capability. It is a joint command, based at RAF High Wycombe and staffed by personnel from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, alongside civil servants and commercial contractors. UK Space Command is also supported by an increasing number of exchange personnel from international partners and allies.

UK Space Command brings together three functions under a single military commander:

1. Delivering day-to-day space operations
2. Growing and training the defence space workforce, and
3. Developing and delivering the Defence Space Capability Management Plan

It is unique in Defence for a single 2-star command to have responsibility for the direct, develop, deliver, generate and operate functions, but this allows the command to operate independently and dynamically through requirement setting to capability and operational delivery. 

Following UK Space Command’s formation and establishment, the current priority is to operationalise the Command. This includes adaptation to better integrate and cohere a wide range of activities and capabilities within a unified operational approach, with clear ends, ways and means.

UK Space Command has an ‘own, collaborate, access’ approach to space capability growth. This approach bounds the capability programme, while also defining what must be retained as a sovereign capability and where the command can collaborate with allies and partners; or simply access space-based services through the domestic and international commercial space industry.

UK Space Command also has very close links to Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) and Dstl, specifically in capability growth and harnessing the rich pedigree of research and development expertise that exists within UK Defence, ultimately enabling multi-domain integration. UK Space Command also works closely with the UK Space Agency to deliver joint national space capability, as well as other areas of Defence through its Space Liaison Officer (SpLO) network of forward-embedded space specialists.

5. Space Capability Planning Group

The C4ISTAR capability area, within Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC), is responsible for the future development of Satellite Communications (SATCOM). All other space capabilities (ISR, SDA, C2, Control of Space) reside under UK Space Command.

5.1 SATCOM

SATCOM enables global operations by enhancing our ability to communicate and transfer large volumes of data globally, rapidly and securely, connecting the modern battlefield and integrating the force. As outlined in the Defence Space Strategy (DSS), the UK’s sovereign military SATCOM, provided through the SKYNET 6 Programme, is the bedrock of our SATCOM capability. The DSS also highlights the importance of commercial and Allied SATCOM services to provide additional capacity, coverage and resilience (the Own, Collaborate, Access (OCA) approach).

Working closely with Defence Digital and Dstl, CSOC’s work includes: the design, launch and operation of new satellites (the next being Skynet 6A); introduction of new ground infrastructure and user terminals; and the evolution of the end-to-end network. This is to ensure that the UK has a continued sovereign and secure SATCOM capability in an ever more contested environment; for which we work closely together with our colleagues in UK Space Command.

5.2 Workstream

CSOC engages extensively across Defence, UK Government, industry, academia and allied nations to understand what is in the realm of the possible to meet future SATCOM demands. It is recommended that industry keep an eye out for relevant support opportunities with Dstl, DASA, BIST and UKSA. Alternatively, look out for us at related conferences, or contact us at UKStratCom-Cap-C4ISR-Space-Group@mod.gov.uk. Live opportunities are advertised on Contracts Finder and the Defence Sourcing Portal.

6. Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) 

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) brings strategic advantage to UK defence and security through science and technology. Dstl is the Ministry of Defence (MOD) science and technology organisation, providing unique expertise, crucial insights and delivering battle-winning solutions for the benefit of the nation and allies. Further information about Dstl can be found here. 

Dstl also provides the UK with advanced space science, technology, services and advice to monitor, protect and defend our interests in and through space.

This page provides useful information on how to work with Dstl, including:

• understand the new rules shaping how public bodies buy goods and services in place from 24 February 2025 and see the additional guidance for defence and security contracts

• register your interest in working with Dstl 

• complete their short survey  if you already work with them - your opinion matters.

• sign up for webinars which highlight exciting new opportunities and explain how to bid for work. For more information email  searchlight@dstl.gov.uk

This page also explains how to become a supplier and where to find the opportunities that are available. Dstl  works alongside a range of suppliers to provide our customers with the best science and technology, research and capabilities to protect the UK’s security and advance the UK’s defence interests. Find out more about Dstl efforts to increase collaboration and engagement with Ministry of Defence in the Defence Science and Technology (DST) collaboration and engagement strategy.

7. Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) 

UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) powers a smarter defence - accelerating innovation, strengthening security, and growing UK defence technology. UKDI brings defence innovation together to move ideas rapidly from concept to frontline and stay ahead through continual technological advantage. By backing the high-growth, high-tech UK defence firms of the future and supporting start-ups and scale-ups, UKDI boosts national security while making defence an engine for growth.  

The UKDI vision is to accelerate the delivery of cutting-edge innovative capabilities so that the United Kingdom is both secure at home and strong abroad. This vision drives everything we do. UKDI works on harnessing commercial innovation, including dual-use technologies, to put capability in the hands of our Armed Forces and security frontline faster than ever before, whilst contributing to the Government’s drive for greater economic growth. 

The UKSA Unlocking Space for Defence (USD) collaborates with UKDI and Dstl to deliver the Space to Innovate: Delta Drop themed competition.

8. The National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF)

The National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF) is the government’s corporate venturing arm for pioneering dual-use technologies. Established in 2018, we enable the UK National Security and Defence (NS&D) community to adopt the most innovative technology from the market at scale and pace to help protect the UK’s security and prosperity.  

We invest commercially in innovative start-ups, whose advanced dual-use technologies have potential applications both in the private sector and in the NS&D community, and fund research and development with companies to assess, adapt and trial technologies with government users.  

Space & Comms is one our priority areas, with a number of direct equity investments. We work alongside a number of strategic partners including UK Space Command, DASA, DSTL and the UK Space Agency in delivering pioneering technology to keep the UK safe.

9. UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is the UK’s largest public funder of research and innovation, investing over £8 billion annually—accounting for approximately half of the UK’s total public R&D expenditure. UKRI supports a wide range of disciplines, with a strong focus on advancing space science and technology. This includes funding pioneering research, enabling technologies, and the safe, responsible use of space, as well as harnessing space-based data to address global challenges.

Through national facilities such as RAL Space and the UK Astronomy Technology Centre, UKRI underpins the UK’s civil space programme and drives innovation across astronomy, life sciences, Earth observation, and more. As steward of the Harwell Space Cluster, UKRI also plays a key role in connecting research with industry to accelerate growth in the UK space sector.

9.1 UK Space Agency Collaboration 

UKRI works in close partnership with the UK Space Agency to advance the UK’s space capabilities. While UKRI leads on research and scientific innovation, the UK Space Agency funds the supporting space infrastructure. This collaboration enables the UK’s research community and national laboratories to develop and deliver pioneering space missions. Together, UKRI and UK Space Agency support the full spectrum of space activities and help position the UK as a leading international partner in space science and exploration. 

UKRI collaborates with the UK Space Agency to enhance UK involvement in ESA programmes and fosters global partnerships through international research, bilateral agreements, and academic exchange. UKRI collaborates with the UK Space Agency to enhance UK involvement in ESA programmes and fosters global partnerships through international research, bilateral agreements, and academic exchange. 

9.2 Funding and Support Mechanisms 

Research Grants and Innovation Funding 

UKRI provides funding across the space research and innovation pipeline through: 

Research Council Grants - Supporting fundamental and applied research in space sciences through: 

• Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) - astronomy, particle physics, space science 

• Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) - Earth observation, climate science 

• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) - space technology development 

• Medical Research Council (MRC) - space biology and health research 

Innovate UK Funding - Supporting business-led innovation in space technologies and applications, including: 

• collaborative R&D projects 

• smart grants for SMEs 

• knowledge transfer partnerships 

• innovation vouchers 

Doctoral Training and Skills Development 

UKRI supports the UK space sector by training future researchers through the Centre for Doctoral Training in Next Generation Computational Modelling, funding early career talent via space scholarships and fellowships, and fostering academic-industry collaboration through industrial partnerships and fellowships. 

9.3 Contact UKRI 

Main Contact 

Website: www.ukri.org General Inquiries: info@ukri.org 

Funding Opportunities 

Funding Portal: Apply for funding - UKRI Find a Grant: Government funding opportunities available through Find a Grant 

Skills and Training 

Doctoral Training: Studentships and doctoral training - UKRI

10. Regulations 

10.1 The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)  

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) are the UK’s space regulator and play a central role in the expanding space sector. The CAA license launches, spaceports, and satellites and are responsible for the ongoing monitoring of space activity, including hundreds of satellites in orbit. Their work is helping make UK space activity safe, sustainable and secure for all.  

The CAA space team includes regulators with experience in hazardous sectors, space and aerospace engineers, and environment experts. They also draw on expertise from teams across the CAA to support the safe operation of space activities.  

Further information and the space licensing in the UK guidelines can be found on the CAA ‘Getting started with licensing?’ webpage.

10.2 Export Controls Joint Unit (ECJU)

The Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) administers the UK’s system of export controls and licensing for military and dual-use items. ECJU brings together operational and policy expertise from the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Ministry of Defence (MOD).  The UK Strategic Export Control Lists (known as the consolidated list) are compiled from seven lists in various pieces of international legislation which set out what types of goods are controlled.   

The ECJU defines Dual Use as items (including applications, technology, and software) that can be used for both civil and military purposes.   

These controls include items such as space launch vehicles, “spacecraft”, “spacecraft buses”, “spacecraft payloads”, “spacecraft” on-board systems or equipment, terrestrial equipment, air-launch platforms and “sub-orbital craft”.  As well as goods and software that can go into spacecraft and goods, software and technology used in the manufacturing, development and use of spacecraft.   

If an item is listed under a control list (‘rating’) entry there is a need for an export licence from the ECJU. If goods are not on the control lists, there may still be a need for a licence under end-use controls. This applies where there are concerns over their use in a weapons of mass destruction (WMD) programme.    

General queries about strategic export licensing can be sent to exportcontrol.help@businessandtrade.gov.uk or telephone 020 7215 4594.

10.3 UK Defence and Security Exports (UKDSE)

UK Defence and Security Exports (UKDSE) helps UK defence, physical and cyber security companies to export products, technology and services. They provide specialist export advice and practical assistance, and they also help unlock high-value and strategic inward investments in these industries across the whole of the UK.  

UKDSE works closely with industry and Government departments including the Ministry of Defence, the Home Office and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office as well as government agencies UK Export Finance and Export Control Joint Unit.  

General queries can be sent to dbt-ukdse.enquiry@businessandtrade.gov.uk; also, the UKDSE contacts directory contains information about the direct contact for specific teams.

10.4 UKDE Export Faculty

The SME Defence Export Faculty provides free support to small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to export in the defence and dual‑use sectors. Following recent government changes, responsibility for defence exports has been consolidated under the National Armaments International (NAD), and the Faculty’s services are in the process of transitioning to the MOD. While this work is ongoing, SMEs can continue to access support and guidance by contacting the SME Defence Export team directly at NAD-ICE-Exports-SMEEnquiry@mod.gov.ukNAD-ICE-Exports-SMEEnquiry@mod.gov.uk. The Faculty offers a central point of contact to help businesses navigate export opportunities, understand requirements, and access wider government support. Please access this link for further information.

10.5 5 SME Export Surgery Events

‘The Ministry of Defence’s National Armaments International team offers SME Surgery events focused on export controls and regulations for small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) in the defence, dual‑use, and aerospace sectors. These sessions provide an opportunity to engage directly with government experts and gain practical support on exporting to international markets. 

The events cover key topics such as export licensing, access to finance, and emerging opportunities in markets including Ukraine. They also provide guidance on accessing new defence collaboration routes, such as the AUKUS Authorised User Community, and on participating in global trade shows through a MOD pavilion initiative. 

Designed specifically for SMEs interested in exploring international defence and aerospace opportunities, the sessions highlight the range of support available from His Majesty’s Government across different stages of the SME lifecycle. Previous sessions have included themes such as “How SMEs Can Access the International Defence Sector”. 

Upcoming events are scheduled as follows: 

• September – Northern Ireland 

• October – Scotland 

• November/December – North England 

• January/Feburary – South-West 

You can register to hear about future National Armaments International events here: UKDE Export Faculty Registration.’

10.6 Information

Space Regulatory Review 2024 

The Space Regulatory Review was developed collaboratively with government, independent regulators and the space, defence, finance and insurance sectors.   

This partnership has a single unifying message to provide clarity and certainty through our regulatory framework during a time of innovation and rapid change in the sector to boost confidence across industry and investors both nationally and abroad.  

The report identifies 7 priority outcomes and 17 recommendations to maintain the UK as one of the best places on Earth to start, scale and run a space business, which are:

• agility: greater, responsive coordination across government departments and regulators

• innovation: a dynamic framework that supports novel and emerging missions and technologies

• growth: a progressive regulatory framework that encourages investment

• international partnership: a multilateral alliance with other spacefaring nations with aligned regulatory frameworks and best international practice

• safety and sustainability: incentivising sustainable space activities, protecting the space environment and its celestial bodies

• accessibility: a coherent suite of primary and secondary space legislation with clear published guidance

• national interest: a civil and commercial space regulatory framework that supports UK national security

This confidence in our future regulatory regime will help drive growth, encourage innovation and sustainability to realise UK ambitions in space while ensuring maintaining the UK’s competitive edge in the global space market.  

The review stresses the need for a regulatory framework that balances national security concerns with commercial access to space, ensuring that UK businesses can compete globally while maintaining strategic security interests​. Overall, it promotes a cohesive regulatory approach that integrates commercial space growth with defence priorities, ensuring a secure and sustainable space environment. 

Civil - Defence Collaboration 

The UK aims to improve coordination between civil and defence space activities, recognising their interconnected nature.  

The UK Space Agency & UK Space Command have (in partnership with the Met Office) established a joint operational programme “National Space Operations Centre” which protects UK space interests through missile warning; monitoring the safety of satellites; fragmentation alerting and monitoring; support to license monitoring; and, tracking orbital incidents, including potential satellite collisions, severe space weather events, and the re-entry of objects into the Earth’s atmosphere.  

The Ministry of Defence and UK Space Agency are working closely on space sustainability, regulatory alignment, and securing spectrum access for both commercial and defence uses.  

National Security and Defence

The UK aims to strengthen its civil and commercial space regulatory framework to support national security interests. 

Space technologies play a critical role in monitoring, supporting, and assuring access to national infrastructure and emergency response (fires, floods, volcanic eruptions), and are fundamental to enabling and supporting military operations, both within the space domain and terrestrially. Satellite Communications, such as SKYNET (managed by UK Ministry of Defence) are key to provide communications to military forces worldwide.  

There is a push for policies that balance market access with security measures, such as updating Earth Observation Data Security policies and ensuring national security considerations in all licensable space activities.  

The UK is developing its technical levels of knowledge, skills and experience to monitor space threats, and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office are engaging in the United Nations to prevent an arms race in outer space in all its aspects to manage escalation and misunderstanding on space threats. 

Dual-Use Technologies

The review acknowledges the importance of space technologies serving both civil and defence applications, particularly in areas like Earth observation, satellite communications, and space situational awareness.  

It highlights the role of space-based data in both commercial and security contexts, balancing the promotion of commercial innovation with due regard to national security measures and requirements.  

Space Sustainability & Safety

The UK encourages efforts in space debris mitigation and sustainability through initiatives such as the UNOOSA Long Term Sustainability Guidelines, the IADC space debris mitigation guidelines, and the Dark and Quiet Skies initiative.  

It promotes responsible space activities, including in-orbit servicing, debris removal, and sustainability incentives for space operators.  

Ongoing work includes shaping international space governance through bi- and multi-lateral initiatives, working within UN frameworks, and influencing global space sustainability standards.  

Regulatory Framework & Growth

Proposals include a streamlined licensing process for space missions, improved oversight of launch operations, and security requirements for space systems.  

A diplomacy strategy aims to work with allies to develop best practice that enables emerging technologies, novel missions and innovative applications while discouraging a “race to the bottom” in regulatory standards.  

11. Commercial Mechanisms 

11.1 The Enterprise Space Category (ESC) 

The Enterprise Space Category (ESC) is a cross-government Category aligning space-related procurement across Ministry of Defence (MOD), UK Space Agency, Space Command, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Crown Commercial Services (CCS), Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), Defence Science and Technical Laboratory) (Dstl) and Defence Digital under a unified Category Strategy.

Managing an annual spend of over £573m (of which £526m relates to MOD programmes, primarily the SKYNET portfolio), the ESC drives commercial coherence, improved early market engagement and better digital outcomes for space capabilities.

This includes military and civilian GEO/LEO communication satellites (such as SKYNET, Starlink, Starshield and OneWeb), Space Domain Awareness (SDA), ISR, PNT, launch services, ground-segment infrastructure, land and maritime terminals, payload (UHF, Mil-Ka, X-Band), protected modems, satellite filings, space research and studies, MILSATCOM services including  ground-station management, terminal integration, and Space Professional workforce development. 

The ESC comprises four sub-categories which are:

• Space and Ground Segment Manufacturing,
• Space Operations,
• Space Applications, and
• Space Enabling Services.

The ESC leads end-to-end commercial delivery for complex and digitally enabled Space programmes (including projects within the Government Major Projects Portfolio (GMPP) i.e. SKYNET), ensuring compliance with procurement regulations while enabling transformation through modern sourcing approaches, data-driven decision making, digital market intelligence and adoption of innovative technologies. It strengthens supplier relationships and influences the development of a resilient, competitive digital Space ecosystem.  

The role of the Enterprise Space Category (ESC)

The role of the Enterprise Space Category is to deliver commercial coherence and alignment across government, acting as a “One Government” and providing a single interface for industry engagement. Benefits of the ESC include earlier and more consistent market engagement, sharing market intelligence and best practice, developing an understanding of the space value chain, and identifying opportunities that support improved sector outcomes, value for money and social value.

The Benefits of the Enterprise Space Category (ESC)

The Enterprise Space Category will drive the transformation changes in procurement through a number of workstreams to achieve the ESC vision “To achieve acquisition excellence in an evolving environment through innovative and effective procurement decisions”. The ESC workstreams are Category Structure, Income Generation, Cross NATO/Allies Opportunities, Market Insight, Standardised Contract Terms, Commercial Optimisation, Benefit Realisation, and Social Value.

Industry Engagement and Strategic Partnering

The ESC have established a programme of Industry Round Tables to share ideas and Industry experience. Events are advertised on Contracts Finder and the Defence Sourcing Portal. 

If you have any questions regarding the Enterprise Space Category (ESC) or would like to join one of the ESC Industry events, then please contact the ESC using the following email address: ukstratcomdd-cm-space-esc@mod.gov.uk

11.2 Crown Commercial Service 

Crown Commercial Service (CCS) is the UK’s biggest public procurement organisation and an executive agency of the Cabinet Office. We are procurement experts, helping the public sector maximise every pound so precious resources can go where they’re needed most. Our service is free for the UK public sector, where buyers can access everything from temporary staff and energy, to laptops and police cars. 

Space Commercial Agreements

CCS Space procurement activities are part of the Enterprise Space Category (ESC). The following two commercial agreements (RM6370 and RM6235) will facilitate the procurement of goods and services related to space and geospatial technologies. This includes satellite communications (SatCom), geospatial and remote sensing, space domain awareness, space command and control and advisory, data, aerial and land-based platforms, consultancy and training. They offer innovation, flexibility, rapid deployment and security whilst remaining compliant to UK procurement regulations (PCR 2015 and PA 2023).

To compare the agreements and determine which one is the best for your requirements, use the Route To Market Comparison.

Space Technology Solutions (RM6370)

This dynamic market, let under the new Procurement Act 2023, will provide the UK public sector with access to both upstream and downstream space related technology solutions for goods and services. This agreement can be used by all public sector buyers, including those involved in defence and security. It covers goods and services related to space and geospatial technologies. These include satellite communications (SatCom), geospatial and remote sensing, space domain awareness, space command and control and advisory, consultancy and training. 

The dynamic market is divided into categories, called parts and each part provides specific goods, works and services.  The following is the category of works, services or supplies available on RM6370:

• satellite communications
• unmanned autonomous vehicles
• geospatial and remote sensing
• upstream launch services
• design and manufacture
• space domain awareness
• space command and control
• rapid deployment capability
• research and development
• position, navigation and timing
• intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance
• sustainability
• security, risk & insurance consulting

This dynamic market supports both the Space Industrial Plan and the UK Geospatial Strategy and:

• is compliant with the new Public Procurement Act 2023 designed to create a simpler and more flexible commercial system
• simplifies the buying process by creating a list of pre-approved suppliers
• provides a mix of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large suppliers, depending on your needs
• allows engagement between buyers and suppliers using the competitive flexible procedure to help drive innovation and customised solutions

Click the links to watch the Supplier Webinar and Customer Webinar videos for RM6370.

Link for further information: Space Technology Solutions - CCS

Space-Enabled and Geospatial Services 

This Dynamic Purchasing System (DPSS) under the PCR 2015 can be used to procure remote geospatial, locational, communication and sensing capabilities services.

Services available may include data, technology solutions and aerial and land-based platforms.

Developed in conjunction with the Buyers, this agreement provides a broad scope of products and services for the space enabled technology market, including the geospatial ecosystem. Geospatial ecosystem refers to any solution using data about location, or ‘geospatial’ data.

The DPS provides a simple and efficient route to market for a wide range of requirements in the space category. It provides the buyer with the opportunity to access relevant and commercially available products or services in this area, including ‘off the shelf’ services and ‘bespoke’ services.  The DPS can also be used for below threshold requirements.

The DPS is organised into four distinct categories and following is the category of works, services or supplies available on the DPS:

• data products, such as aerial photography or services to monitor demographic changes over time
• remote sensing or monitoring services including satellite or Unmanned Autonomous Vehicles (UAVs)/drone platforms
• UAV platform products, such as drones or counter drone technology
• broadcast or communications enabled by satellite technology
• professional services such as service design, operations support, training or other consultancy services
• digital applications or services that make use of geospatial data

For ‘How to buy’ and detailed instructions and to find out which suppliers are on the agreement, visit RM6235 homepage.

UK Space Agency Commercial Team 

UK Space Agency Commercial activities are part of the Enterprise Space Category (ESC) and support the commercial activity of its teams throughout the procurement lifecycle to enable delivery to meet the agencies aims and objectives. The UK Space Agency Commercial team is responsible for issuing and awarding the UK Space Agency’s funding calls, ensuring they adhere with subsidy control and the grants functional standards.  

The UK Space Agency Commercial team strives to provide excellent and timely commercial support to our business end users, enabling delivery of efficient, compliant and effective procurement activity, grant commissioning and management and industry relationship management. 

While the majority of UK Space Agency opportunities are procurements or grants the UK Space Agency Commercial team is actively exploring other commercial mechanisms to support the delivery of the UK Space Agency’s strategic goals while supporting industry and academia, including Challenge funds and Contracts for Innovation. 

Further information on guidance for suppliers can be found here.  

UK Space Agency Funding Mechanisms 

The UK Space Agency regularly issues grant calls in support of its programmes, facilitating R&D and innovation within the space sector. A grant is a sum of money paid to an individual or organisation for a specific purpose, which allows public bodies to fund activities that support its policy objectives and commitments to the public. 

On 4 January 2023 the UK Subsidy Control Act came into law, replacing the interim agreement to follow the Trade & Co-operation Agreement (TCA).

All UK Space Agency grants must be awarded in compliance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022, which sets out requirements around the maximum amounts of subsidy that Government bodies can award to enterprises for commercial activity. A subsidy is “where a public authority provides support to an enterprise that gives them an economic advantage, meaning equivalent support could not be obtained on commercial terms”. There are caps on the amount of subsidy that can be given to companies to avoid Government having a distortive impact on the market.   

The UK Space Agency publishes its grant calls on Find a Grant and its own gov.uk page.

The Procurement Act 2023 

See a short guide for suppliers.

From 24 February 2025, the rules that shape how public bodies buy goods and services have changed. The Procurement Act 2023 (the Act) aims to improve and streamline the way procurement is done and benefit prospective suppliers of all sizes, particularly small businesses, start-ups and social enterprises.  

If your business supplies goods, works or services to organisations in the public or utility sectors – or hopes to do so in the future – you need to know about the changes. Also, if your business supplies goods, works or services to organisations in the public sector – or hopes to do so in the future – it is recommended to stay informed on these changes.  

Key benefits for suppliers include more standardisation and streamlining of procurement processes - but there are also additional benefits in the Act such as requiring better oversight of procurement decisions and strengthening payment terms. 

Additional information can be found on the Buyers and Supplier page and all future adverts will be included on the ‘Find a Tender’ central digital platform.  Also, this form can be used to sign-up link for regular updates. 

For further information, go-live webinars, and the ‘How to’ videos, please access the Procurement Act 2023: A short guide for supplier’s page and the Transforming Public Procurement page.

Organisations wanting to become suppliers to the UK Space Agency should regularly check on the central digital platform for opportunities. The UK Space Agency regularly uses Frameworks and Dynamic Purchasing Systems (DPSs) to source its requirements, organisations wishing to get onto those should engage with Crown Commercial Service (CCS). Common routes to market are RM6235 - Space-Enabled and Geospatial Services and RM6126 - Research & Insights.

12. Requirements for National Security 

Security clearances can be essential for working in the defence and security sectors, ensuring that personnel handling and accessing sensitive information do not pose a risk to national security. The levels of security clearance begin with the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), which involves basic checks and is mandatory for all civil servants and those handling government assets. Higher levels of clearance, such as Security Check (SC) and Developed Vetting (DV), will require a government sponsor. Obtaining and maintaining these clearances can incur financial and time costs for companies where specific requirements must be met, including record-keeping and adherence to relevant guidance. It is important for all staff to understand their individual responsibilities associated with holding security clearance. 

This section will provide information on these responsibilities, and the UK Space Agency Security team can provide further support and guidance. Also, the UK Space Agency Security & Resilience team has an extranet with industry resources.

12.1 Security vetting/clearance 

Baseline Personnel Security Standard  

Baseline Personnel Security Standard Checks should be undertaken for all staff. 

For this you need to undertake checks on:

• identity (ID)

• right to work (RTW) in the UK

• employment history ( taking up references)

• criminal record (unspent convictions). This can be done here

You do not need anyone to sponsor this, you just need to keep secure records of the checks undertaken and your approval or denial. 

Requirement for higher (i.e. SC/DV) vetting 

A UK company is likely to only need security clearance if they are working with/contracted to a Government Department where this is a requirement.  

If a UK “space” related company is doing work for UK Space Agency (i.e. has a contract with the UK Space Agency) and the Agency states that a vetting is required, then the Agency will be the Contracting Authority and will sponsor the individuals requiring clearance.  

If the Contracting Authority is Ministry of Defence or somewhere else in His Majesty’s Government (HMG), then the responsible Government department/agency would need to act as the sponsor, not the UK Space Agency.  

If a UK company needs vetting in order to work with a foreign Government or foreign company (i.e. it is a UK company with a contract that is entirely international in nature, so HMG are in no way the Contracting Authority or entity), then these fall to Cabinet Office to resolve. Then they need to apply to Cabinet Office who will consider their request if it supports/progresses UK industry.  

Security cleared staff may be required in advance of bidding for a government contract in some cases (such as defence work).  In these cases, trade bodies may be able to act as a sponsor.  

Hiring students 

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) applies to all international students and researchers (apart from exempt nationalities) who are subject to UK immigration control and are intending to study or research at postgraduate level in certain sensitive subjects. 

The subjects and research areas are those where knowledge could be used in programmes to develop Advanced Conventional Military Technology (ACMT), weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), or their means of delivery. Satellites that are either capable of dual use or could be in the future, are included in the former category. 

Researchers and students in these sensitive subjects must apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate before they can study or start research in the UK. 

Students and researchers who are nationals of EU countries, the European Economic Area (EEA), Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland or the United States of America do not need an ATAS certificate. 

The US run a similar counter proliferation vetting as our Academic Technology Approval Scheme. 

Business partners 

Any decision to partner or accept investment should be well-informed by an awareness of the security risks, whether they are from the UK or overseas. The parties that you choose to do business with may not follow the same rule of law or ways of engaging - further information can be found here. You will need to ensure you comply with the National Security and Investment Act.  

If you remain concerned about links to any of the above countries and want to continue considering the partnership, please contact resilience@ukspaceagency.gov.uk for advice and help. 

12.2 Security Considerations

Security Frameworks  

The UK Space Agency (Space Security & Resilience Team) are working to develop security frameworks which can be adopted by industry and will provide a recognition that suppliers, manufacturers and owners/operators of space-domain services are secure and resilient to external threats. As space services are not nationally bound, it is important that these frameworks are recognised and mutually accepted internationally, so the UK Space Agency is working on how to develop these frameworks with international partners, as well as with industry. 

The end goal of this work will be recognised standards, assessment criteria and accreditation leading to a security certification.  The first framework will focus on cyber security for ground infrastructure.  

Investment Security 

The UK Space Agency is responsible for undertaking all reviews of significant foreign investments or takeover proposals for UK registered space companies through the National Security and Investments Act 2021. 

The Act gives the government powers to scrutinise and intervene in business transactions, such as takeovers, to protect national security, while providing businesses and investors with the certainty and transparency they need to do business in the UK.  Under the Act, the space sector is classed as one of the 17 defined sensitive areas of the UK economy and approval may be needed from the government before an acquisition can be completed. 

It may be a legal requirement for companies to inform the government of an acquisition – which in this case is called a notifiable acquisition – and failure to do so can result in the acquisition being void and the acquirer can be subject to civil or criminal penalties.

Before proceeding with an acquisition, refer to the guidance here. 

National Security Assessments on License Applications 

As part of the process for assessing a license application through the Space Industry Act (2018) and Outer Space Act (1986), an assessment of the impact on National Security of the UK from the service or system being licensed will be conducted.

The lead for this assessment is the Security & Resilience Team within the UK Space Agency. During the license application process, the applicant will be required to complete a series of questionnaires which will give the team information about areas such as the owners, operators, capabilities, data security, etc., so that a cross-Government risk assessment can be completed. If sufficient information is not provided, this will slow the application process down as clarification is sought.

A recommendation will be made to the regulator, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), regarding whether there being no risk to national security and a license can be issued or there being manageable risks and conditions under which the license can be permitted.  In rare cases, if the risk cannot be managed, refusal of the license will be recommended. Guidance and information on the license process can be found on the CAA portal here.

It is recommended that all potential applicants engage with the UK Space Agency’s Security & Resilience team early in the development lifecycle for advice and guidance on the potential risks and what information will be required to provide assurance of mitigations, etc. For information please e-mail resilience@ukspaceagency.gov.uk. 

12.3 Resources & Support 

Resilience Direct (RD) 

Creating an account – step by step guide: 

1. to create an account on ResilienceDirect please navigate to https://www.resilience.gov.uk   

2. choose the collaborate icon from the services displayed which will take you to the registration page

3. select “Register” and follow the on-screen instructions

4. on the right-hand side of the page, you will notice the ‘Select Group’ field. The Group is UK Space Agency RD Lite 

5. complete your contact detail information, read the ‘End User Agreement’ and check the box to accept it

6. select ‘Register’. 

Please note: when registering for an RD account contact MUST be via an official company email address. Due to the sensitivity of content private/personal emails cannot be used.  

Once you have created your account an email will be sent to your organisation Administrator asking them to confirm that you belong to that organisation. Once confirmed the RD Support Desk will finalise your profile, after which your login credentials will be generated and sent to you.  

If your organisation does not have an existing presence on RD, send a request to join the UK Space Agency RD Lite site to support@resilience.gov.uk. In these cases, the UK Space Agency will be asked to sponsor your membership of RD. 

Once you have access to RD you will be able to:  

• login [note: details are Case Sensitive so ensure you enter them as supplied to you]  

• click ‘collaborate’ on the dashboard  

• search for ‘UK Space Agency’ and request access (this is a one-off request which will come direct to the UK Space Agency Space Security & Resilience Team). (You may not need to undertake this step if your membership was sponsored by the UK Space Agency)  

• Edit your profile - Click on your name (top right) and on the dropdown list click edit your profile. Update this with as much info as possible. This will make it easier to find right people for the right things. Ensure you scroll to the bottom of the page to SAVE CHANGES. 

Security Awareness 

The Unlocking Space for Defence team are working with the UK Space Agency Security and Resilience team to develop a series of sessions to develop industry understanding of Clearance and Classification, Secure by Design, and Risk Assessment. These sessions will be run online, by invite, and at in-person events in partnership with the UK Space Clusters, the first of which was held at Wales Tech Week in November 2025. Further sessions will be continuing in 2026 The initial resource packs for these sessions can be found here: Unlocking Space - Security Awareness Resources.

More information will be available in the next update of the One Stop Shop for Information regarding the dates and locations of these events. For detail on how to sign up for the preliminary online sessions, please contact unlockingspace@ukspaceagency.gov.uk.

13. Space Infrastructure 

13.1 The Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund (SCIF)

The UK Space Agency Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund (SCIF) aims to develop R&D infrastructure that enables UK space organisations to accelerate pioneering products and applications critical to the growth of the UK space sector. The UK’s established network of space clusters provides an ideal mechanism to engage with local companies and universities. A detailed map of space sector segmentation in the space capabilities catalogue and location can be accessed using the UK Space Sector Ecosystem Cluster Directory. The UK’s space sector capabilities can be explored in detail on the  Space Industries Investor Launchpad website. 

The Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund (SCIF) is inviting organisations to register their interest ahead of a new funding call launching in Autumn 2026. The funding was unveiled on Monday 20 July at Farnborough International Airshow by Space Minister Liz Lloyd and it will award £37 million in grants by 2030. Building on the success of the SCIF Pilot programme, which supported 13 projects across the UK, the next round of SCIF will issue grant funding for infrastructure projects that help grow the UK’s space capabilities, unlock investment, create high-value jobs, scale businesses, strengthen supply chains and enable technologies to progress from development through to commercial deployment. A fragmented or underdeveloped domestic space sector leaves the UK exposed - SCIF directly addresses this by strengthening regional space infrastructure and capabilities, reducing dependence on international partners for access to critical space assets. Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to register their interest before the full call opens later this year. 

Underpinned by the space cluster network, the programme ensures that the collaboration between academia, industry, investors and local government delivers local economic prosperity and supports national security ambitions. 

The form will close at 12:00pm on Friday 21 August 2026, however reviews will be conducted as and when responses are received. Please submit as soon as you are ready to give as much time as possible for us to provide and discuss feedback.

13.2 UKRI Space Capabilities and Infrastructure 

UKRI invests in advanced space research infrastructure—including high-performance computing, specialist labs, and astronomical facilities—and partners with the UK Space Agency through the Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund to accelerate R&D and innovation. 

RAL Space and the National Satellite Test Facility

Operated by the Science and Technology Facilities Council, RAL Space is the UK’s national space laboratory at the heart of the Harwell Space Cluster. It provides world-class space science and technology development, including: 

• spacecraft instrument design and development 

• hardware and software 

• mission operations and data analysis 

• earth observation capabilities 

• space weather monitoring 

• planetary science instrumentation 

UK Astronomy Technology Centre (UK ATC)

Based in Edinburgh, the UK ATC develops advanced technologies for ground-based and space-based astronomy, including: 

• astronomical instrumentation 

• adaptive optics systems 

• detector technologies 

• data processing and analysis systems

14. Relevant publications 

14.1 The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy 2025 

The Industrial Strategy published on 23 June 2025 is a 10-year plan to increase business investment and grow the industries of the future in the UK. The Strategy will make it quicker and easier for business to invest and will provide the certainty and stability needed for long-term investment decisions. 

The Industrial Strategy policy paper can be found here – The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy 2025 - GOV.UK . Also, the Sector Plans can be found below: 

• Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan

• Creative Industries Sector Plan

• Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan 

• Digital and Technologies Sector Plan 

• Professional and Business Services Sector Plan

14.2 Strategic Defence Review (SDR) 2025

The ‘Strategic Defence Review 2025 - Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad’ document was published on the 2nd of June 2025 by Ministry of Defence (MOD). 

The SDR sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform Defence. It will end the hollowing out of the UK’s Armed Forces and lead in a stronger, more lethal NATO. As we reform Defence and increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and 3% in the next Parliament when fiscal and economic conditions allow, the SDR will help make defence an engine for growth—boosting prosperity, jobs and security for working people across the UK.  

The SDR’s vision for UK Defence:  

• move to warfighting readiness—establishing a more lethal ‘integrated force’ equipped for the future, and strengthened homeland defence.  

• engine for growth—driving jobs and prosperity through a new partnership with industry, radical procurement reforms and backing UK businesses.  

• ‘NATO first’—stepping up on European security by leading in NATO, with strengthened nuclear, new tech and updated conventional capabilities.  

• UK innovation driven by lessons from Ukraine—harnessing drones, data and digital warfare to make our Armed Forces stronger and safer.  

• whole-of-society approach—widening participation in national resilience, and renewing the Nation’s contract with those who serve.  

The SDR covers the following aspects of Space Domain, and it has the following recommendations for space:  

1. The MOD should invest in the resilience of UK military space systems with a focus on space control, decision advantage, and capabilities that support the ‘Understand’ and ‘Strike’ functions. The department should periodically review the SKYNET 6A and SKYNET 6EC satellite communications programmes to ensure this capability will be resilient and operationally relevant upon entry into service.  

2. In support of Integrated Air and Missile Defence in the Euro-Atlantic, the MOD should seek partners to develop a next-generation, overhead, persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability. This should provide the ability to sense, warn of, and track threats in the Euro-Atlantic. 

For further information, the full Strategic Defence Review document can be found here.

14.3 The Defence Investment Plan (DIP) 2026

The Defence Investment Plan has been published on the 30 June 2026, and it is backed by £298bn of investment over the next four years. The Plan will transform our Armed Forces, delivering on the vision of the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, as we move to warfighting readiness, back British jobs and businesses, and show UK leadership and step up European security. The Plan is a summary of the major investment choices the Government has made for UK Defence. This is not the entirety of UK Defence’s budget or capabilities, but it is intended to demonstrate to Parliament and the public, as well as industry, how the increasing investment in Defence is being spent.

14.4 Space Industrial Plan 2024

The Space Industrial Plan is a joint civil-defence plan that sets out to modernise the relationship between government and the commercial space sector, establishing clear visions, missions, and actions to unlock growth and develop resilient space capabilities. 

The Space Industrial Plan sets out five specific capability goals where the UK seeks leadership across: 

• Space Domain Awareness (SDA) 

• in-orbit servicing and assembly and manufacturing 

• space data for earth applications 

• Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) 

• satellite communication technology 

The five specific capability goals will direct resources and efforts to these areas of strategic importance and expected industry focus. 

The Space Industrial Plan aims to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem of space companies of all sizes, driving innovation and ensuring operational independence in a contested space environment. It will also be instrumental in guiding future spending decisions and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources in support of the UK’s space ambitions. 

Annex A of the Space Industrial Plan outlines the defence highly assured technical areas.

15. International

###NATO initiatives The UK has played host to space experts from across the NATO alliance to address the technical and regulatory challenges in developing dual-use space technology, for both civil and military use.  

The NATO Science & Technology Organization (STO), Systems Concepts and Integration (SCI) Research Specialist Meeting (RSM) on ‘Dual-use Space Technologies Exploitation for NATO Alliance Operations and Security’ took place on the 6th and 7th of October in the historic city of Bath. The RSM event was led by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and the NATO alliance, and it was delivered by the UK Space Agency in partnership with the German Space Agency (DLR).  

The meeting, co-chaired by the UK Space Agency and the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), brought together over 140 people from academia, industry and government, as well as international organisations such as the European Space Agency (ESA) and NATO DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic), to map out the future requirements for NATO space operations - including Space Domain Awareness (SDA), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Space Control, Satellite Communications, and In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM). 

Further information can be found in this article - NATO allies gather in UK to address dual-use space technology hurdles – UK Space Agency blog. 

If you are interested in receiving information about the next steps and follow up actions resulting from the Research Specialists’ Meeting, please contact the Unlocking Space team. Thank you for your interest!

15.1 NATO DIANA

NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) supports companies developing dual‑use technologies to address critical defence and security challenges across the Alliance. Through its network of accelerator sites and test centres, DIANA provides selected innovators with contractual funding, tailored mentoring, and access to a wide ecosystem of industry, government, and end users. Participants can develop, test and validate their solutions, while benefiting from pathways to adoption across NATO and Allied markets, as well as access to trusted investors. 

DIANA’s 2027 Challenge Call is now open, inviting companies with innovative solutions to apply to the Accelerator Programme starting in January 2027. Proposals are open until 3 July, with a competitive, multi‑stage selection process assessing technical merit, defence relevance, and commercial viability. Successful applicants receive initial contractual funding of €100,000, with the opportunity for further funding of up to €300,000 for solutions progressing to the Mission Track. Throughout the programme, innovators can access DIANA’s test centre network to validate their solutions against end‑user needs and develop clear pathways to adoption. More information to the DIANA 2027 Challenges can be found here. 

In addition to the annual challenge call, DIANA also runs targeted “Dynamic Challenges” throughout the year to address urgent operational needs, offering further opportunities for innovators with more mature solutions to engage with NATO and contribute to Alliance priorities. Submit your proposal, explore the current challenges, or download the full list of challenge statements.

15.2 European Space Agency (ESA) 121 Events

The UK Space Agency ESA team are delivering ESA-focused information sessions. These events are aimed to companies and academia with little to no knowledge of ESA. It covers essential topics such as ESA’s industrial policy, current activity and programmes, basics of ESA procurement and how to navigate through ESA STAR. These are half day events ending with a Networking lunch. The next ESA 101 event will take place in July, and further information will be share on the UK Space Agency LinkedIn page.

16. Government frameworks, front doors and portals

16.1 Why sign up for portals and keep an eye on them?

They are a window into defence procurements priorities, which can help the sector ensure that their products are aligned to government priorities.

They provide open information on existing opportunities, as well as on which opportunities are more suitable for start-ups or sub-contracts.

Organisation	Details	Information	Link
UK Space Agency	UK Space Agency Front Door	The UK Space Agency catalyses investment into the sector, delivers missions and capabilities that meet UK needs, and champions space to investors, customers and the public. Our Contact Us page can tell you how to find more information and how to get in touch with us.	Link
UK Space Agency	Apply for Funding page	This page includes details on open funding opportunities from the UK Space Agency, the space sector, academic, education and community partners	Link
National Space Operations Centre	NSpOC Front Door	The UK National Space Operations Centre has the responsibility for developing and operating the UK’s space surveillance and protection capabilities. It issues contracts on behalf of the organisation for joint purposes but it can also issue contracts for the individual partners (e.g. UK Space Agency).	Link
DSTL centric portal	DSTL centric portal for contract research	Research Cloud (R-Cloud) is the Ministry of Defence (MOD) dynamic gateway for contracting science and technology research	Link
Dstl	Dstl guidance page	This page provides guidance on the many ways for suppliers to work with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl). This page also explains how to become a supplier and where to find the opportunities that are available.	Link
Dstl Serapis framework	Serapis framework	The Serapis framework enables Dstl, MOD and the frontline commands to quickly and efficiently place contracts for scientific and technical research and development	Link
UKDI	Log in or register for a UKDI account	The UKDI online submission service is our proposal submission service. To access UKDI’s services and apply for funding, you must have an account. We recommend you use a Google Chrome browser when accessing the online submission service.	Link
Crown Commercial Services (CCS)		You can use this contact form to ask questions or to provide feedback.	Link
DOSBG	The Defence Office for Small Business Growth	Established to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access the defence supply chain and scale up to meet defence challenges.	Link
Business.gov.uk	Expand your Business tool	This page provides guidance and insights to help you set up and grow your business in the UK by signing up to the Expand your Business tool.	Link
Digital MOD	Home of services and information for digital in Defence	Find the policies, services, rules and guidance for Digital MOD as well as commercial software teams can buy.	Link
Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S)	General Enquiries	This is the number and address for general enquiries to DE&S.	Telephone: 0117 913 0893 Post: DE&S Secretariat, Maple0a, #2043, MOD Abbey Wood, Bristol, BS34 8JH
DE&S Space-DT	General email address	This is the DE&S email address for the Space DT, and it can be used for public enquiries.	DESSpace-DT@mod.gov.uk
Regulatory Innovation Office	Regulatory Innovation Office: Front Door pilot	Businesses can use the Front Door pilot to tell us about regulatory barriers.	Link

17. Other useful information  

17.1 GovBridge learning programme 

The Unlocking Space for Government and the Unlocking Space for Defence programmes delivered a learning programme named ‘GovBridge’ in financial year 2024/25 as part of the UK Space Agency Accelerator. The initiative provided focused support for entrepreneurs, to educate them on how to sell into government (contracts, not grants), in order to drive up the adoption of space tech across the public sector and make the UK government a viable anchor customer for space innovation. The initiative had two cohorts, ‘General’ & ‘Defence’, and the key resources from the two learning modules are included on this page: Unlocking Space - GovBridge Resources

17.2 UKRI Commercial Engagement and Technology Transfer 

Business Support Services 

Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) - Connecting businesses with research expertise and facilitating collaboration opportunities. 

Catapult Centres - The Satellite Applications Catapult provides innovation and growth services to help organisations develop space-based applications and services. 

Innovation Vouchers - Enabling small businesses to access research expertise and facilities for short-term projects. 

Industry Partnerships 

Strategic Partnerships - Long-term collaborations with major space companies to develop next-generation capabilities. 

Supply Chain Development - Supporting the growth of UK space supply chains through targeted R&D investment. 

Export Support - Helping UK space companies access international markets through trade missions and international collaboration programmes.

17.3 Other useful links 

Understanding security

SME guide to working with government

Space Enterprise Community  

DE&S guidance on how to work with defence 

18. Provide feedback & Engage with us 

If there are any suggestions for additional information to be included on the webpage and to contact the UK Space Agency Unlocking Space Programme, please use the email address unlockingspace@ukspaceagency.gov.uk. Also, to contact UK Space Command please use the email address UKSpaceCmd-IndustryLiaison@mod.gov.uk.