Mangata Networks, a satellite-enabled cloud services company has announced it has chosen Scotland as the location for its space hub for research and 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.

The majority of the new jobs will be for highly skilled technical engineering positions in product development, designing and manufacturing satellites, and operating the system end-to-end. 

Brian Holz, Chief Executive Officer of Mangata Networks, said: “We will be using this facility to bring our satellite connectivity and intelligent Edge compute solutions to enterprises globally.

“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 £83.7 million from Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Government, UK Government and South Ayrshire Council. 

Juliette Neu, Chief Experience Officer at Mangata Networks, stated: “All the Scottish organisations involved have been incredibly supportive of our efforts to bridge the gap in global connectivity and access.

“They are so committed to helping each other. That drive is at the core of our shared values and mission.”

This funding comprises £54.5 million from Scottish Enterprise and £29.2 million from the Ayrshire Growth Deal provided on commercial terms that will see this funding repaid over the next 15 years.

Mangata’s new facility will produce and test more than 24 medium class satellites every three months. The facility is capable of qualifying, integrating and testing satellites up to 1500kg in size for the space and launch environments. 

Larry Schwartz, Chief Operating Officer at Mangata Networks, stated: “Our Prestwick facility will include a satellite operations centre to operate our satellites following their launch. 

“Our facility will also feature a network operations centre to operate our end-to-end global communications network as well as an R&D centre to develop our intelligent microEdge data centres.” 

From this engineering hub, the company will establish an operations centre that will manage its satellite systems and global network.

UK Government Minister for Scotland Malcolm Offord said: “The creation of this space manufacturing hub will deliver jobs and investment to Ayrshire and put Scotland at the forefront of an innovative industry.”

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The UK government will be investing £10 million towards these facilities as part of its support for Aryshire’s space and aerospace programme, which will total £32m, the Minister added.

Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Martin Dowey, commented: “This really is fantastic news as Mangata is exactly the kind of company we want to attract to South Ayrshire.

“The global satellite market is booming, and we aim to be right at the centre of that with a vibrant and thriving space sector. 

“This will create high value jobs and exciting future careers for our young people, particularly in STEM-related opportunities, but also in wider support roles.”

Construction will begin in early 2023 with manufacturing and operations teams set to move in from late 2024.

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