In a move that underscores the evolving landscape of satellite technology, Swiss-based company Swissto12 has successfully secured $70 million in a Series C funding round. This influx of capital is intended to accelerate the production of their small geostationary (GEO) satellites, known as HummingSats. These satellites are distinguished by their compact size—comparable to a washing machine—and their use of advanced 3D-printing technology, which aims to reduce both the cost and production time of traditional GEO satellites.
The announcement comes amid a significant shift in the satellite industry. Traditional large GEO satellites, often the size of a school bus, are witnessing declining demand, partly due to the rise of low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband constellations. These smaller GEO satellites are increasingly seen as viable solutions for creating multi-orbit, disaggregated constellations that serve regional markets more efficiently.
Emile de Rijk, CEO of Swissto12, highlighted the growing interest in small GEO satellites for both commercial missions and governmental initiatives aimed at establishing sovereign satellite communication backbones. "There is huge interest here, both for targeted commercial missions and for governments seeking a sovereign strategic backbone for satellite communications," de Rijk stated.
Swissto12 has already secured over $500 million in contracts, involving a range of satellite subsystems, antennas, and multi-orbit payloads. Notably, the first of the seven HummingSats ordered is expected to be completed in 2027 for SES, a prominent operator with a legacy in traditional GEO spacecraft. Other customers include Viasat and Astrium Mobile, with missions scheduled for completion between 2027 and 2029.
Support from European entities has been instrumental in Swissto12's development of HummingSat. Earlier this year, the European Space Agency's ARTES telecoms program awarded the company $84.8 million. This backing not only validates the technology but also strengthens Europe's position in the competitive satellite manufacturing market.
Swissto12's strategy differs from some of its competitors, such as U.S.-based Astranis. While Astranis retains ownership of the satellites it manufactures, offering long-term leases on their capacity, Swissto12's model allows customers to own and operate the HummingSats they purchase. This approach offers flexibility and potentially lowers costs for satellite operators.
Founded in 2011 as a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Swissto12 initially focused on developing lightweight antennas and radio frequency components. Over time, the company expanded its capabilities to include complete payloads and entire satellite systems. To date, over 2,000 of its products are active in various missions, including those supporting LEO constellations.
This latest funding round is part of a broader trend in the satellite industry, which has seen record investments in 2026, totaling $8.1 billion in the first half of the year alone. This trend reflects a growing confidence in satellite technology's potential to address a myriad of communication and data relay needs globally.
Looking ahead, Swissto12 is well-positioned to capitalize on the evolving demands of the satellite market. The company's diversified approach—acting as both a provider of payload products and an integrator of satellite systems—positions it to address opportunities across different orbital regimes. As the industry continues to evolve, Swissto12's innovations in 3D printing and small satellite design may pave the way for more efficient, scalable, and cost-effective satellite solutions.
