US Rockets Firm Leap Eyes Mothballed Highland Spaceport

Colorado-based Leap has announced plans to potentially transform the mothballed Sutherland Spaceport into its first international launch site. The company, which specializes in designing rockets for mass production, has entered a formal agreement with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to explore development at the site near Tongue. This initiative follows the collapse of the previous developer, Orbex, which had halted construction at the location in 2024 before its assets were liquidated. As various rocket firms evaluate their global infrastructure needs, Leap aims to utilize the Highland site to launch small satellites for clients across the UK and mainland Europe.

Developing a Global Network

Chief executive Chris Beckman emphasized that the company is focused on establishing a comprehensive logistics network. According to Beckman, the Sutherland location serves as an ideal starting point for a European-based network, noting that HIE shares the ambition to make recurring spaceflight from Scotland a reality. The spaceport is situated on the Melness Crofters Estate on the A' Mhoine Peninsula, a region known for its small-scale farming. Dorothy Pritchard, chairwoman of the estate, expressed support for the project, suggesting that the presence of a launch operator could foster a sustainable and thriving space industry in the region.

Leap plans to use the mothballed Sutherland Spaceport as its first international launch site for small satellites.

Local stakeholders and government officials have welcomed the agreement, viewing it as a vital addition to the UK's growing space ecosystem. The development of this site is seen as a way to secure the UK's position within the global space economy and provide long-term economic opportunities for the Sutherland area. This move comes amid broader international cooperation in the sector. Last month, the UK and German governments announced plans to deepen strategic ties regarding civil, commercial, and defense interests in space, specifically highlighting the role of the SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland, which is currently the UK’s first fully-licensed facility.

Why it matters

The potential reactivation of the Sutherland site represents a significant shift for the UK's aerospace ambitions. By providing a dedicated facility for small satellite launches, the project aims to integrate the Highlands into a resilient, diverse national launch ecosystem.

For international observers, including those in the global space industry, this development signals a growing trend of cross-border partnerships in commercial spaceflight. As companies like Leap look to expand their reach, the establishment of satellite launch infrastructure in Scotland could influence future logistics and launch capabilities for international customers.