Reported by Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No.1 Malayalam Radio Station

Abu Dhabi-based space technology company Orbitworks is moving forward with an ambitious $1 billion plan to build a large-scale satellite network over the next five years. The announcement comes shortly after the company secured its first contract with a European government, marking a major step in its global expansion.

Backed by International Holding Company (IHC), Orbitworks is preparing to launch its first satellite in October, with nine more scheduled for deployment next year. The long-term roadmap includes an additional 40 satellites, forming a powerful constellation designed to deliver advanced Earth observation capabilities.

Strengthening UAE–Europe Space Collaboration

Orbitworks has recently signed a key agreement with French space agency to manufacture and launch satellites. This partnership is expected to accelerate the UAE’s ambition of becoming one of the world’s leading space economies.

The company has already invested around $200 million into a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi. The plant currently has the capacity to produce 10 satellites annually, with plans to scale up production to as many as 50 per year.

Orbitworks itself was formed through a collaboration between Loft Orbital and Marlan Space, combining international expertise with regional investment strength.

AI-Driven Satellite Constellation

At the heart of the initiative is the Altair satellite constellation, an advanced system designed to monitor environmental and global changes. Using space-based sensors integrated with artificial intelligence, the network will track deforestation, climate patterns, and support disaster response efforts.

To fund this large-scale expansion, Orbitworks is exploring multiple financing options, including potential backing from both Abu Dhabi and French government entities.

Leadership and Strategic Backing

Marlan Space, the parent company of Orbitworks, is supported by Royal Group, the private office of Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He also chairs the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and IHC, underscoring the strong institutional support behind the project.

The company is led by CEO Hamdullah Mohib and COO Justin Ledbetter, with Prabhav Sharma serving as a senior advisor.

With this bold investment and international collaboration, Orbitworks is positioning itself at the forefront of the UAE’s rapidly growing space sector—signaling a future where advanced satellite networks and AI-driven insights play a central role in global monitoring and sustainability.