The Scotland space sector, the hidden gem of the UK, along with its aerospace counterpart, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone. According to a recent publication by ADS Group, the UK trade association for aerospace, security, defence, and space, these sectors generated over £4 billion in turnover in 2022.
Scotland Space Sector Reaches Billion-Dollar Turnover
As per the 2023 Scotland Facts and Figures report, Scotland’s space sector witnessed a turnover of £3.1 billion, while the aerospace sector added another £1.1 billion. Even more remarkable is the significant economic value these sectors bring, with a combined total of around £3.2 billion value add for the UK economy.
Employment in Scotland’s Aerospace, Space, Defense, and Security Sectors
When it comes to job creation, Scotland’s space sector and its counterparts have provided a considerable boost to the local economy. In numbers, the aerospace sector employs around 4,500 people, the space sector 8,500, the defence sector 13,250, and the security sector 8,750.
Output per Worker in the Four Scottish Sectors
In terms of productivity, the output per worker in these four sectors is a robust £95,000, which is a staggering 47% more than the average productivity value for the entire UK economy.
Government’s Commitment to Grow the Economy
Rt Hon Alister Jack MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, applauded these numbers at a recent roundtable, saying:
“It’s clear that Scottish skills, expertise and innovation make an enormous contribution to the UK’s defence, security, aerospace and space sectors.”
He also pledged the UK government’s commitment to the industries, underscoring the plan to support their domestic and international success.
The Rapid Rise of the Scotland Space Sector
A report from Scottish Development International (SDI) underscores that Scotland’s space sector is one of the country’s most exciting sectors. It’s growing faster than anywhere else in the UK, employing nearly one fifth of all UK space sector roles, and hosting over 130 space companies. The sector is projected to exceed £4 billion in value by 2030.
Orbex: The Future of the Scotland Space Sector?
Adding to this momentum, Orbex, a UK-based spaceflight company based in North Scotland, has expanded its facilities ahead of the launch of its Prime rocket — a two-stage rocket designed to transport and release small satellites weighing up to 180kg. The company operates a spaceport in Sutherland under a long-term lease, signalling confidence in Scotland’s space sector’s future growth.
With these remarkable achievements, Scotland is truly cementing its reputation as a leader in aerospace and space sectors. But what do you think? Do you believe this rapid growth will continue? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your insights could be the launchpad for our next article on Scotland’s space sector!
