The UK Space Agency is funding 16 projects through a £13 million government investment to advance next-generation satellite communications, with practical applications ranging from reliable broadband on remote Scottish rail routes to precision agriculture tools for British farmers. The announcement was published on 18 August 2026 by the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.
Among the most prominent projects is CGI's SODOR initiative, which will trial satellite broadband on ScotRail's West Highland Line — one of Scotland's most scenic but remote routes — bringing reliable connectivity to passengers in areas where traditional mobile networks struggle to reach. The trial is intended to support the government's wider ambition to introduce satellite connectivity on all mainland trains, improving availability and connection speeds across the country.
In agriculture, Farmer Charlie's GAUFF project is developing affordable satellite-enabled sensors that will give farmers real-time data on their land and crops, with the technology expected to be available by the end of next summer. Betty Bonnardel MBE, CEO of Farmer Charlie, said the company was "delighted to receive the support of the UK Space Agency, through the European Agency," adding that combining affordable sensors with satellite connectivity would make it "easier for growers to make informed decisions, improve productivity and farm more sustainably anywhere in the UK."
The 16 projects are being delivered through the European Space Agency's ARTES programme. Among other recipients, London-based Exobotics Ltd is receiving £2,100,000 for its STARS project, developed with Archangel Lightworks and the University of Nottingham, to build ultra-fast optical satellite communications technology and deliver the first satellites in a planned data relay network. Airbus Defence and Space UK Ltd in Portsmouth is receiving £1,500,000 for its Theia project, which develops software-defined radio technology that can be reprogrammed while in orbit. Further projects will also advance the UK's capabilities in deep space and lunar communications.
The UK's space sector employs more than 55,000 people and contributes £18.6 billion to the economy every year, according to figures cited in the announcement. The funding is intended to help develop the faster, smarter, and more secure satellite systems described as essential to both national security and economic growth.
Several verified sources, together with artificial intelligence, were used in the preparation of this article. The content was reviewed by our editorial team prior to publication. Disclosure provided in accordance with Article 50 of the EU Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act).



