3 minute read - 12th December 2022
Mangata Networks to open new space hub in Prestwick
Mangata Networks, a global satellite-enabled cloud services company, has chosen Scotland as the location for its research & development activities, as well as satellite manufacturing, space systems and core network operations.
Over the coming few years, up to 575 new jobs will be created as part of Mangata’s state-of-the-art engineering and operations hub for satellite manufacturing and operations at the Prestwick International Aerospace Park in Ayrshire.
Mangata’s new facility will produce and test more than 24 medium-class satellites every three months, becoming a significant focal point and asset for the Scottish and UK space sectors, as well as a centrepiece for technology and innovation. The facility is capable of qualifying, integrating and testing satellites up to 1500kg in size for space and launch environments. From this engineering hub, the company will establish an operations centre that will manage its satellite systems and global network.
The majority of the new jobs will be highly paid, highly skilled technical engineering positions in product development, designing and manufacturing satellites, and operating the system end-to-end. Construction will begin in early 2023, with manufacturing and operations teams set to move in from late 2024.
John Swinney, deputy first minister of Scotland, said: “The fact that Mangata has chosen to base its new satellite manufacturing facility in Ayrshire is a huge boost for the region, for the space and manufacturing sectors, and for Scotland as a whole. As well as the substantial, high-skilled job opportunities, this will open up new pathways for the satellite manufacturing supply chain and help position Scotland as a leading centre for space and manufacturing innovation – while supporting the aims of our space strategy.”
Brian Holz, chief executive officer of Mangata Networks, said: “Scotland, Ayrshire, the local regions, and the UK have expressed a lot of confidence in our system and mission. We are very grateful to be able to locate Mangata’s core product development, satellite manufacturing, and network operations teams in a state-of-the-art facility in Prestwick.
“We will be using this facility to bring our satellite connectivity and intelligent Edge compute solutions to enterprises globally. Today, our customer base has already committed to over 1.5 Tbps pre-launch, nearing full capacity of our initial 32 satellites. As the business grows, Mangata’s network can scale to over 750 satellites. This factory will be a key enabler, allowing us to scale and deliver cost-effective space technology into markets that really need it.”
The hub is supported by an innovative funding and assistance package from public sector partners, totalling over £83.7m from Scottish Enterprise, South Ayrshire Council, and Scottish and UK governments. This funding comprises £54.5m from Scottish Enterprise and £29.2m from the Ayrshire Growth Deal provided on commercial terms (i.e. not grant funding) that will see this funding repaid over the next 15 years.
Adrian Gillespie, chief executive of Scottish Enterprise, added: “This investment has the potential to be a real game-changer in helping unlock economic opportunities from the global commercial space sector. Mangata’s decision to locate this project in Ayrshire is a strong endorsement of our ability to support and nurture global industries of the future. Not only will it bring hundreds of new quality jobs for the people of Scotland, but it will be a catalyst for a new supply chain, opening up opportunities and partnerships both domestically and internationally. We look forward to working closely with Mangata to bring its state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing facility to fruition at Prestwick International Aerospace Park.”
Juliette Neu, chief experience officer at Mangata Networks, said: “All the Scottish organisations involved have been incredibly supportive of our efforts to bridge the gap in global connectivity and access. Mangata is passionate about connecting humanity all around the world, using the systems we will develop in Scotland. We saw this same spirit to serve in the local and global community in our interactions in Scotland. They are so committed to helping each other. That drive is at the core of our shared values and mission.”