Lockheed Martin and UK Space Agency Close Pathfinder Project

The UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin mutually agreed to close the grant programme associated with the Pathfinder satellite launch project. The initiative sought to establish Lockheed Martin as the first company to launch a satellite from the SaxaVord Space Centre in Shetland.

The project stalled after a 2024 fire caused irrecoverable damage to the facilities of ABL Space Systems, a partner of Lockheed Martin. Following this setback, Lockheed Martin shifted its strategic focus toward missile defense rather than orbital launches.

A company spokesperson stated that available options did not meet grant requirements regarding programme objectives, anticipated benefits, and value for money. While the Shetland programme has concluded, Lockheed Martin stated it remains committed to supporting the space sectors of the United Kingdom and Europe.