Axiom Space has entered into a formal partnership with the Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO) to integrate Slovak companies into the international space industry. The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on October 1, 2025, during a networking event at the International Astronautical Congress in Sydney.
The agreement is designed to create new opportunities for Slovak businesses in high-tech areas such as orbital data centers, satellite manufacturing, and research payload development. It marks a significant step in Slovakia's strategy to expand its economy beyond traditional industries and into the growing global space sector.
Key Takeaways
- Axiom Space and Slovakia's SARIO signed a Memorandum of Understanding to foster collaboration.
- The agreement aims to integrate Slovak companies into Axiom Space's global supply chain.
- Key focus areas include orbital data centers, satellite construction, and scientific research in space.
- The partnership supports Slovakia's economic goal of diversifying into a knowledge-based economy.
Details of the Strategic Agreement
The MoU was officially signed at a Slovak networking event held during the International Astronautical Congress in Sydney, a major annual gathering for the global space community. The event featured presentations from a dozen Slovak companies, showcasing their technical capabilities to an international audience.
This agreement formalizes a cooperative relationship that has been developing over the past year. According to officials, SARIO and Axiom Space have been engaged in exploratory discussions and matchmaking activities to identify potential areas for collaboration. These preliminary efforts have already resulted in initial opportunities in research, business development, and talent building.
The memorandum establishes a framework for future projects, focusing on connecting Slovak expertise with the needs of the commercial space industry. It is intended to be a long-term partnership that benefits both Axiom Space's operational goals and Slovakia's economic development.
What is SARIO?
The Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO) is a government agency dedicated to attracting foreign investment to Slovakia and promoting Slovak businesses abroad. Its involvement in the space sector is part of a national strategy to foster innovation and develop high-value industries.
Slovakia's Ambition in the Space Sector
For Slovakia, this partnership is a key component of a broader national strategy. The country is actively working to shift its economic focus toward technology and innovation. Robert Simoncic, the Chief Executive Officer of SARIO, described the space economy as a critical driver of this transition.
“The space economy is one of the key drivers of Slovakia’s diversification toward a knowledge-based economy,” said Robert Simoncic. “I am pleased to see that even shortly after joining major international platforms such as ESA and IAF, concrete global collaborations are already emerging.”
Simoncic's statement highlights Slovakia's recent progress in establishing itself within the international space community. By joining organizations like the European Space Agency (ESA) and the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the country has gained access to new networks and opportunities. This MoU with Axiom Space is one of the first major outcomes of that increased engagement.
Building a High-Tech Economy
The collaboration aims to create a pathway for Slovak businesses and researchers to participate in one of the world's most advanced industries. This not only provides commercial opportunities but also helps develop a highly skilled workforce within Slovakia, retaining talent and attracting new expertise. The focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) outreach is a core part of this long-term vision.
Showcasing Local Talent
At the Sydney event where the MoU was signed, 12 Slovak companies presented their capabilities. This demonstrates a growing ecosystem of space-related businesses within the country, ready to engage with international partners.
Specific Areas of Collaboration
The agreement outlines several key areas where Slovak companies can contribute to Axiom Space's projects and the broader space industry. These initiatives are designed to leverage existing Slovak strengths while building new capabilities.
The primary areas of focus include:
- Orbital Data Centers: Developing infrastructure for data processing and storage in space. This is a growing field critical for managing the vast amounts of data generated by satellites and other in-orbit assets.
- Satellite Construction and Operations: Integrating Slovak components and expertise into the manufacturing and management of satellites.
- Launch Services: Supporting both suborbital and orbital launch activities, potentially through ground support, software, or component manufacturing.
- Research Payloads: Assisting in the development and hosting of scientific experiments and research equipment destined for space.
- STEM Outreach: Creating educational programs and activities to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and space professionals in Slovakia.
These focus areas provide concrete entry points for Slovak companies, from established engineering firms to new technology startups, to join a global supply chain.
Axiom Space's Global Vision
From Axiom Space's perspective, the partnership is about expanding its network of suppliers and collaborators to support its ambitious goals. The company is at the forefront of the commercial space industry, best known for its work in developing the world's first commercial space station.
Anand Subramanian, Chief Growth Officer at Axiom Space, emphasized the mutual benefits of the agreement.
“By fostering collaboration, we broaden the scope of exploration and unlock new avenues to grow a global space economy,” Subramanian stated. He noted that the MoU aims to build cross-industry cooperation and increase research opportunities for Slovak entities.
Building a commercial space station and facilitating regular missions to low-Earth orbit requires a robust and diverse supply chain. Partnerships with national agencies like SARIO allow Axiom to tap into specialized expertise and manufacturing capabilities from around the world, making its operations more resilient and innovative.
Future Outlook and Industry Reaction
The formalization of this partnership has been well-received within the Slovak space community. Michal Brichta, the Space Director at SARIO, commented on the growing interest from major international players.
“We are delighted to see the increasing interest of major industry players in collaborating with our space industry and researchers,” Brichta said. “This is the best signal that the growing Slovak space sector has a lot to offer.”
This MoU serves as a model for how emerging space nations can partner with established commercial leaders. By focusing on specific technological niches and leveraging government support, countries like Slovakia can carve out a meaningful role in the rapidly expanding $630 billion global space economy. The success of this collaboration will likely encourage similar partnerships between commercial space companies and national development agencies worldwide.