Sutherland Launch Ltd
Pioneering air and space operations in the Scottish Highlands.
Our Mission
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Our mission is to develop a sustainable aerospace and launch campus in Sutherland, providing resilient access to space, enabling innovation and strengthening national capability.
Working in partnership with local communities, we aim to create skilled employment, support community wealth building and deliver lasting economic opportunity through responsible development and environmental stewardship.
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About us
Sutherland Launch Limited was established to secure the future of launch activity in Sutherland and turn the region’s aerospace potential into lasting opportunity.
Our team includes key personnel directly involved in the development and delivery of Sutherland Spaceport. Their experience spans infrastructure design and construction, programme management, planning and environmental compliance, licensing preparation, safety assurance, regulatory engagement and operational readiness. This first-hand knowledge provides continuity and a practical understanding of what is required to bring the site into operation.
Supported by experienced leaders and specialist advisors across space, aviation, defence, government and finance, we combine technical capability with the commercial and strategic expertise needed to develop a sustainable aerospace business.
Our vision brings together Sutherland Spaceport and the proposed Alba Nova air + space campus, supporting launch operations alongside testing, research, technology development and education.
Working closely with Melness Crofters Estate and local communities, we place community wealth building, responsible development and environmental stewardship at the heart of our approach. Our ambition is to strengthen the UK’s access to space while creating skilled jobs, supporting local businesses and delivering lasting value for Sutherland.
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Strategic Highlands Location
The Scottish Highlands offer a strategically important location for UK launch capability. Sutherland’s northerly position and access to flight paths over the North Atlantic make it well placed for polar, sun-synchronous and high-inclination missions, widely used for Earth observation, communications and scientific research. Developing launch infrastructure here would expand domestic capacity and strengthen national resilience.
The region also connects to established transport networks. London airports are within 4.5 hrs travel time, Inverness provides air and rail connections, with road access north to Sutherland. Highland deep water ports offer potential routes for larger equipment and cargo, while the area’s accommodation, businesses and supply chains can support visiting teams and launch campaigns. Site access and specialist transport arrangements would be developed around operator requirements.
