OHB and Helsing Form Alliance for Europe's Space Sector

Berlin, 12 June 2026 – OHB SE and Helsing have entered a joint venture, KIRK, bridging the gap between established industrial partners and innovative start-ups within Europe's New Space ecosystem. This initiative involves seven start-ups and mid-sized companies through signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), focusing on developing space-based defense and reconnaissance systems.

With partners like Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and HENSOLDT, the venture seeks to leverage market-ready solutions from start-ups and SMEs, enhancing technological sovereignty and operational performance. This approach is aimed at establishing Germany as a leading space power within Europe by integrating start-ups for rapid and innovative system development.

The consortium includes collaborations with firms such as ConstellR, Rocket Factory Augsburg, Marble Imaging, DMI, TerraLens, and ISAR Aerospace. The initiative aims to create a powerful network, offering better data, shorter response times, and improved security, contributing to building a robust European space ecosystem.