The UK government is exploring a plan to launch a £160 million satellites fund to boost satellite communication and ensure reliable connectivity in remote and rural parts of the UK.

The government said the scheme would build on the UK’s satellite industry by providing UK researchers and businesses with support to drive the development of new constellations.

The fund would be used to develop low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which are more resilient to disabling attempts and have been used in Ukraine to ensure reliable connection in the ongoing conflict with Russia.

The fund would also support research into smarter satellites with better hardware which use AI to make data delivery faster and improve connection.

The government said the proposed scheme would complement a range of projects, including those at a 5G testing facility in Oxfordshire which aims to establish connections in remote areas.

Michelle Donelan, science innovation and technology secretary, said that the potential fund could facilitate vital research and tackle the “digital divide.”

“This proposed record investment is also potentially a huge opportunity to harness our reputation as a world leader in innovation and R&D investment, supporting leading UK businesses to deliver the next generation of satellites and positioning the UK as true space superpower,” Donelan added.

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