How Can Defence and Private Sector Partnerships Shape the Future of Space-Tech

In 2022, as Ukraine's communications infrastructure faced significant disruption, the military sought support from a private company: SpaceX. Starlink terminals were deployed within days, providing robust battlefield connectivity and real-time coordination. This event marked a pivotal moment for defence strategists globally, highlighting that private space technology can significantly influence conflict outcomes, beyond merely complementing national security efforts. 

The collaboration between and private innovation is now a standard practice. Worldwide, partnerships between defence entities and private companies transform how nations address security, intelligence, and communication challenges. 

A Rapidly Changing Landscape 

Historically, space technology was primarily the domain of governments with substantial budgets, centralised agencies, and lengthy procurement processes. However, the rise of private companies has transformed this landscape. These firms are creating reusable rockets, compact satellites, and advanced imaging systems at significantly lower costs than traditional methods. 

Defence organisations, needing to be more agile, are leveraging this ecosystem. The previous one-way relationship, where governments funded research and occasionally licensed it to private firms, has evolved into a two-way exchange. Private companies contribute speed, flexibility, and specialised expertise, while defence establishments provide scale, infrastructure, and long-term stability. 

Models of Collaboration Taking Shape 

These collaborations take several forms: 

• Operational Partnerships: The U.S. Department of Defence uses commercial launch providers like SpaceX for satellite deployment, reducing costs and timelines. In India, startups such as Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos partner with defence agencies to enhance launch capabilities. 

• Infrastructure Sharing: The European Space Agency and allied defence agencies are increasingly co-developing ground stations and testing facilities with private partners. 

• Startup Acceleration: NATO's Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) directly supports dual-use startups, allowing early-stage firms to apply their innovations in civilian and defence sectors. 

  
  

Each model represents a different balance of speed, cost, and security, united by the understanding that no single entity can dominate space-tech innovation alone. 

Strategic Payoffs for Both Sides 

The advantages of collaboration are evident: 

• For defence agencies, partnerships provide access to rapid innovation cycles and emerging technologies, such as AI-driven surveillance and micro-satellite constellations. 

• For private companies, these collaborations offer long-term contracts, enhanced credibility, and opportunities to test solutions in high-stakes environments. 

• For nations, this approach fosters resilience. A diversified ecosystem mitigates overreliance on any single agency or supplier, strengthening national security. 

The situation in Ukraine highlighted this truth: when state infrastructure faltered, private resilience stepped in. Even during peacetime, private companies deliver essential assets, from earth observation to secure communications, enhancing preparedness. 

Applications and Use Cases 

The practical impact of space-tech collaboration is already evident across multiple defence functions: 

Secure Communications: Viasat, a California-based global communications company and Hughes Network Systems, a U.S. provider of satellite broadband and managed network services, provide high-capacity satellite communications for military operations, ensuring reliable connectivity even in remote or contested areas. 

Earth Observation: Planet Labs, a U.S.-based Earth imaging company, offers high-resolution satellite imagery that assists defence agencies in monitoring border activities, tracking infrastructure changes, and assessing environmental impacts. Their daily imaging capabilities are vital for timely intelligence gathering.

Launch Services: India's Skyroot Aerospace, a private space launch company, is collaborating with Axiom Space to improve access to low-Earth orbit, aiming to provide cost-effective and reliable launch services for defence-related satellites. 

Satellite Communications: OneWeb Technologies, the U.S. subsidiary of the global satellite operator OneWeb, has showcased high-capacity, low-latency satellite communications during military exercises, demonstrating its ability to deliver secure, resilient communication channels for defence operations. 

Space Domain Awareness: BlackSky, a U.S. geospatial intelligence company, operates high-frequency imaging satellites that provide near-real-time Earth observation for defence and security missions. LeoLabs, a U.S. space-tracking company, delivers advanced orbital monitoring services, assisting defence agencies in tracking debris, monitoring satellites, and planning safe manoeuvres. 

Logistics and Asset Tracking: Spire Global, a U.S.-based space-to-cloud data and analytics company, delivers real-time data on ships, aircraft, and vehicles through satellite-based tracking, enabling defence agencies to optimise supply chains and maintain situational awareness across extensive operational areas. 

Navigating Risks and Roadblocks 

However, collaboration also presents challenges: 

• Cybersecurity vulnerabilities increase when sensitive defence payloads are deployed on commercial platforms. 

• Procurement delays can frustrate startups that operate on tight innovation timelines. 

• Geopolitical risks arise when companies with global clients must navigate conflicting national interests. 

Striking a balance between the dynamism of the private sector and the caution of defence organisations remains a key challenge. Without robust frameworks, these collaborations risk creating dependencies that could be costly in times of crisis. 

AgileIntel's Perspective 

At AgileIntel, we view defence-private collaboration in space technology as a defining trend for the coming decade. Our focus includes three key areas: 

• Technology Foresight: Identifying emerging innovations, from quantum communication to orbital debris management, that can be adapted for dual use. 

• Partnership Strategy: Developing engagement models that prevent vendor lock-in, safeguard intellectual property, and align innovation speed with defence security needs. 

• Implementation Enablement: Assisting private firms in navigating compliance and scaling their solutions while helping defence agencies identify reliable, agile partners. 

This dual perspective lets us advise both sides, ensuring collaboration fosters progress without compromising resilience.

The Road Ahead 

The distinction between defence and commercial space technology will continue to blur. Beyond launches and satellites, private companies are exploring space-based solar power, autonomous orbital servicing, and real-time earth analytics, all of which have potential defence applications. 

Nations that thrive will cultivate ecosystems of trust, harnessing private innovation without compromising national security. At the same time, defence agencies adopt the agility of the commercial sector without losing control over critical infrastructure. 

The lesson from recent history is clear: collaboration is essential in the strategic race for space. It forms the foundation of resilience, influence, and security.