The Slovak Space Sector Confirmed Its Strength at Space-Comm Expo Europe

The Slovak Space Office (SSO SARIO) successfully represented Slovakia at the largest space event in the United Kingdom – Space-Comm Expo Europe, which took place on 4–5 March 2026 in London. The event welcomed a total of 5,000 participants, more than 250 exhibitors, and over 200 speakers from around the world. The Slovak Republic was actively represented by Kristián Ondáč, Sector Development Manager SSO SARIO, who participated in key parts of the professional programme. 

Space as Critical Infrastructure and Security

The first day of the event, included a meeting within the Ambassador Roundtable, attended by representatives of EU and NATO countries. The main topic of discussion was the coordination of space capabilities in the context of the evolving geopolitical situation. The discussion concluded with a shared understanding that space has become critical infrastructure for both the economy and security, which requires closer cooperation among allies to protect it. During the discussion, the Slovak side emphasised the importance of cybersecurity and the need for companies to implement the working logic of common standards (such as ECSS) already in the early stages of development, which would facilitate international interoperability.

Connected Capabilities: Small Agencies with Big Impact

The second day of the event continued with a panel discussion titled “Connected Capabilities, Shared Impact: Growing Europe’s Space Ecosystem.” Kristián Ondáč spoke alongside representatives of space authorities from Slovenia, Iceland, and Finland. The discussion focused on how smaller European agencies can contribute to Europe’s overall resilience and innovation through targeted specialization and cooperation. He highlighted Slovakian potential in “spin-in” technologies, pointed out that Slovakia has unique companies with technologies that are not usually categorized as space technologies but have enormous potential in the sector. He also emphasized the role of the ESEIS platform in effectively connecting industrial ecosystems and highlighted the success of Slovak incubation programmes such as ESA BIC Slovakia and the Spaceport Incubator.

Slovakia: From Heritage to a Modern Space Ecosystem

The programme also included a dedicated Slovakia Showcase block titled “Slovakia: From Heritage to a Modern Space Ecosystem.” The presentation mapped Slovakia’s journey from historic achievements – such as the missions of Vladimír Remek and Ivan Bella and participation in the Rosetta mission – to today’s modern ecosystem with more than 60 active companies operating in the space economy.

The Slovak space sector currently generates real revenues and employs a growing number of people. Most companies focus on downstream applications (the use of Earth observation and navigation data), while the upstream segment – including the development of hardware, sensors, and satellite components – is also growing significantly.

Opportunities for Slovak Companies

The active participation of the Slovak Space Office at Space-Comm London significantly contributed to the visibility of the SARIO agency and the entire Slovak space sector among international partners. The event opened new pathways for connecting Slovak companies with foreign entities, strengthening Slovakia’s integration into European value chains.