…It is unfortunate that UK Space Instruments only became a household name through the Villaverde Disaster. The company has had a rich history starting pre-World War 2 and has participated in some of the most exciting space projects that have existed…
– The History of Space Exploration (TV series)
| Name: | UK Space Instruments |
| Type: | Aerospace |
| Founded: | 2045 (after acquisition of Space Instruments PLC) |
| Formerly: | UK Space (1970) Bramley Family Aviation (1932) |
UK Space Instruments (UKSI) is a British aerospace company. It was formed in 2045 after the acquisition of Space Instruments PLC by British aerospace company, UK Space. UKSI aims to supply the national and global space industry with high precision parts for all space related hardware. It is the second largest exporter of space related goods in the United Kingdom and has supplied parts for both private and national projects in countries across every continent.
UKSI has made attempts at breaking into terrestrial technologies but has yet to land a significant project. In 2149 it put in a bid to help re-develop London’s transport network but was beaten by Griffin Technologies. In 2167 UKSI put significant capital into is energy arm, UK Energy Systems (UKES), attempting to break into the energy market. UKES had limited success and was eventually sold off to leading energy company, Wind & Tidal.
UKSI is one of the leading space companies in the United Kingdom. Its innovation and expertise at developing small precision parts led to it becoming a global name and the company experienced huge growth. By 2058 it was the second largest UK exporter in the space industry.
Until 2095, UKSI was a private company owned and run by the Bramley family. In 2093, the Villaverde Disaster led to the UK Government taking control of 42% of the company as part of a significant bailout package.
As a result of the bailout, UKSI’s business model has changed dramatically. The UK government has significant sway over the direction of the company, preferring it to work on UK projects, both civil and defence before the international community. This has given UKSI unprecedented access to the UK Defence sector.
After the Villaverde Disaster, UKSI took a significant hit to global reach and trust, however, during the 37 years directly after the disaster the company began to rebuild that reputation. Initially by serving the UK defence sector almost exclusively and then slowly building up business with companies nationally and then globally. UKSI has managed to regain most of its global reach and trust.
Sunsets on Britannia 