Orbitworks, a joint satellite manufacturing venture between Abu Dhabi's Marlan Space and San Francisco's Loft Orbital, announced a $1 billion investment to expand its AI-powered satellite network. As the Middle East's first commercial satellite manufacturer, Orbitworks plans to launch its first satellite in October 2026, with nine additional satellites planned for deployment in 2027. The investment comes as the UAE-US company secured a major contract to manufacture and launch satellites for France's space agency.

Why This Matters

Orbitworks' billion-dollar expansion comes seven months after the UAE-US joint venture opened its $200 million satellite manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi. The rapidly scaling venture partners closely with US suppliers to bring AI-backed space technology to the commercial satellite sector, building on decades of UAE-US space collaboration. The investment accelerates the UAE's homegrown space industry while creating high-tech jobs and opportunities for joint innovation with American firms like Loft Orbital.