4iG Space and Defence (4iG SDT), under the newly signed non-binding commitment letter with Axiom Space, has confirmed its intention to participate as a strategic investor in Axiom Space’s capital increase. The contemplated $100 million capital increase could provide 4iG SDT with an equity stake in the company.

The current agreement also covers potential participation in the first European Orbital Data Center (ODC) programme and 4iG SDT’s entry into Axiom Space’s global space marketplace. As part of the preparatory phase of the strategic collaboration, the parties have already signed two business cooperation agreements over the past year, focusing on research into LEO satellite technologies and orbital data centre services, paving the way for future collaborations.

4iG SDT may be Axiom Space’s first European partner to collaborate on the ODC programme, including innovation initiatives and infrastructure such as optical ground stations. The ODC programme aims to establish a next-generation data centre in orbit, capable of processing and storing the vast amounts of data generated in space directly on-site. This represents a breakthrough compared to traditional terrestrial systems, as it enables real-time filtering and analysis of information in space, reduces the volume of data requiring downlink to Earth, and significantly enhances the efficiency of data management. In connection with the Orbital Data Center programme, the two companies have defined an additional USD 100 million framework for the next five years, thereby setting the long-term direction of their cooperation. The project may serve as a link between Hungary and other strategic markets, securing a prominent international position for the Hungarian space industry.

According to the letter, 4iG SDT will also leverage Axiom Space’s global space marketplace, providing Hungarian technology developments with direct access to the international space industry ecosystem.

“The commitment established with Axiom Space marks a milestone in US–Hungarian relations, creating a unique opportunity for a Hungarian company to become a strategic investor in a US space enterprise, thereby strengthening economic and technological cooperation between the two countries. The agreement represents international recognition of Hungary’s space capabilities, could open new horizons in research and development, and lays the foundation for long-term engagement with global market players. Through the Orbital Data Center programme, we can not only leverage the expertise of Hungarian professionals but also inspire the next generation in space exploration and STEM” said István Sárhegyi, CEO of 4iG SDT.

Houston-based Axiom Space is a specialist in commercial spaceflight and space infrastructure development. The company is known for its expertise in conducting crewed missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and for developing Axiom Station, the commercial space station. Axiom Space also provides solutions for microgravity research, with a particular focus on space-based data networks, storage, and processing. The company is also credited with sending the second Hungarian astronaut, Tibor Kapu, to space under the HUNOR – Hungarian Astronaut Programme, which represented a historic milestone for the country’s space research. Axiom Space may work with 4iG SDT on on its first European Orbital Data Center (ODC) project, representing a unique opportunity to strengthen Hungary’s international position in space.

The agreement with Axiom Space strengthens US–Hungarian technological ties and represents another step towards making Hungary an active participant in the growing segments of the global space economy. The relationship provides the country with an opportunity to secure a long-term role in orbital data centre programmes and space-based data processing and storage, while reinforcing the position of Hungary and Central Europe in the global space ecosystem.

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Categories: Articles, Business, Funding, Satellite

Tags: 4iG, axiom, Hungary, Space