OHB launches new UK subsidiary in Bristol, strengthening Europe’s space sector

The new operation in Bristol is part of OHB’s strategy to strengthen Europe’s space sector and enhance its technological resilience and sovereignty. CEO Marco Fuchs highlighted the strategic importance of the move, stating: “I am truly glad that we have finally established a presence in one of Europe’s key space markets.”

The region’s high-tech ecosystem played a crucial role in the decision, with Fuchs adding: “The Bristol region, with its high-tech cluster, provides a great environment for OHB to develop innovative and competitive space products and systems from the UK for the national and European markets.” The subsidiary will contribute to system-level responsibilities across multiple space domains.

The UK is recognised as a key player in the European Space Agency (ESA) ecosystem, and OHB’s new presence is set to deepen cross-border industrial collaboration. As both Germany and the UK are NATO members, the partnership is also expected to support security-focused space programmes and reinforce Europe’s strategic space capabilities.

Oliver Salisch, Managing Director of the new UK company, praised the region’s potential, saying the UK offers “an incredibly dynamic and innovation-driven environment, perfectly aligned with the pursuit of excellence and groundbreaking solutions OHB is known for.” The subsidiary will build on existing partnerships, including those with SaxaVord Spaceport and Rocket Factory Augsburg.

UK Minister of Industry Sarah Jones formally welcomed OHB’s expansion, noting: “It is a great indicator of the opportunity that a company such as OHB sees in the UK space sector. OHB plans to grow the company quickly in order to develop system capabilities in major space domains.”

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm by regional stakeholders, including the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority. Dan Norris, Mayor of the West of England, said: “Today’s announcement means more high-skilled jobs for local people – and that’s fantastic news. OHB SE setting up shop in the West of England is a big win for our region and a real rocket boost for our space industry.”

The investment was supported by Invest Bristol & Bath, Space West, the UK Space Agency, and the Department for Business and Trade. The new OHB UK base is located at the Bristol & Bath Science Park, further strengthening the region’s status as a hub for innovation and advanced technologies.