The burgeoning Stellenbosch-based Space Commercial Services Holdings with satellite business interests in advanced engineering, geospatial intelligence and socio-economic development projects, spread its wings further with a Dutch Aerospace & Technology Group (SSBV) joint venture.

“The joint venture NewSpace Systems (Pty) Ltd will develop and manufacture small satellite components, cameras, and platforms for the international satellite market. It will not only work together with other companies in the SSBV and SCSH Groups, but also build strong ties with other South African companies, universities, and research institutes," says Dr. Sias Mostert CEO of SCSH.

“Based on the experience gained inside SSBV for small satellite components, the new joint venture company will be a mission-enabler for national and commercial small satellite missions. It should be seen as a next generation provider of reliable major components and subsystems for operational small satellites with high-performance," said Pieter van Duijn, CEO of the SSBV Aerospace & Technology Group.

“We have been investigating the possibilities of a partner in Africa and we feel that South Africa is a country proven to be motivated and determined to develop its own competence in the space sector. We look forward to joining forces with the South African Space Community," said Mr Van Duijn.

The joint venture enables the new company to set out with intellectual property for a number of sub-systems and components with international space heritage. It also positions them to supply the European space industry with services and hardware. James Barrington-Brown, a satellite industry specialist from the UK, will lead NewSpace Systems.

Founded in June 2008 in the Stellenbosch Technopark district dubbed the emerging Silicon Valley of South Africa the SCSH group's main aim was to leverage the unique properties of the space infrastructure for the benefit of developing countries.

Euroconsult the leading global consulting firm specializing in space markets, reports that a total of 850 satellites were launched over the last decade and expects an average of 115 satellites per year to be launched worldwide over the next 10 years (2013-2022). They expect the satellite demand of civilian government agencies to be much stronger than that of military agencies in future.