Franco-Swiss industrial cooperation powering Europe’s space ambitions
On the 10th July, the Swiss Embassy in France brought together 53 key players from agencies, industry leaders and research institutes for a conference dedicated to Franco-Swiss industrial cooperation in space. It was organised in partnership with the French Association of Alumni of the Polytechnical Schools of Lausanne and Zurich (AFLZ).
The event took place under Switzerland’s presidency of the ESA Council. Renato Krpoun, Director of the Swiss Space Office (SSO) and current Chair of the ESA Council, opened the evening by highlighting Switzerland’s strategic role in European space governance. His remarks set the stage for a panel discussion featuring Swiss and French experts exploring synergies in satellite technologies, launch systems and the emerging space economy. Cysec, a Swiss specialist in cybersecurity for critical infrastructure and space missions, and Safran Data Systems, a leading French player in telecommunications and telemetry, showcased the technological complementarity between the two countries in securing data and developing embedded solutions.
The event unfolded at a time of renewed momentum for the Ariane 6 programme, the rise of low Earth orbit constellations and growing concerns over the sustainability of space activities. It shed light on existing collaborations while paving the way for new joint ambitions in innovation and competitiveness, such as at the ESA. This conference strengthened ties between historic partners and created a platform for dialogue among agencies, research institutions and industry to foster joint innovation in service of Europe’s space future. It also sets a good foundation for strengthened cooperation in the leadup to the international space summit announced by President Emmanuel Macron for early 2026.
