The German Federal Armed Forces are prioritizing partnerships with domestic and European Newspace companies in the development of planned satellite constellations, ground stations and launch capabilities. Generalmajor Michael Traut, Chief of the Bundeswehr’s Space Command, emphasized the necessity of bolstering Germany’s space industry through significant investment and a shift in procurement strategy.
Historically, institutional clients in Europe have favored established providers, often outlining very specific technical requirements in their contracts. Traut aims to move away from this approach, advocating for the German government to act as a customer encouraging technological advancement and speed of innovation within the industrial sector.
The Bundeswehr has already secured launch services from several German Microlauncher companies, including Isar Aerospace, Rocket Factory Augsburg and Hyimpulse. Traut anticipates that at least two of these three companies will successfully reach orbit within the next two years.
Recent announcements indicate a substantial commitment to space projects, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius outlining plans to invest approximately €35 billion in space initiatives by 2030. The newly established Space Command, founded in 2021, is playing a crucial role in shaping this expansion. Germany’s burgeoning space sector currently encompasses over one hundred Newspace companies alongside more established players, presenting significant opportunities for collaboration and growth.