Thailand’s THEOS-3 satellite programme is being used to develop a domestic space industry by requiring at least 10% of components and services to be supplied by Thai companies under GISTDA’s in-country procurement policy. The initiative is designed to help local manufacturers produce space-grade satellite parts that meet international standards while creating future export opportunities. Get today's headlines by email The programme marks a significant step beyond satellite development by focusing on building long-term industrial capability. According to GISTDA, Thai businesses are receiving direct technology transfer and production standards needed to manufacture critical satellite components, including the satellite’s main structure, side panels and other parts capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of space. Before the THEOS-3 project, Thailand had no manufacturers certified to produce components meeting these space-grade standards. The knowledge gained through the programme is intended to enable Thai companies to offer components and related services to satellite projects in other countries, creating new revenue opportunities in the high-value space sector. The project also builds on infrastructure established during the earlier THEOS-2 programme. Clean rooms, testing equipment and specialist software developed for satellite assembly and testing remain in Thailand at the National Satellite Assembly, Integration and Test Centre (AIT) in Si Racha, Chonburi. These facilities are expected to support future satellite programmes without requiring new infrastructure to be built for every project. The centre is also intended to strengthen Thailand’s long-term capability by supporting both technical development and workforce training. Beyond manufacturers, GISTDA aims to transfer knowledge to more than 1,000 people involved in Thailand’s growing space sector. The programme includes engineers, software developers, CubeSat specialists and university academics, with the objective of expanding expertise across the country’s entire space ecosystem. The initiative forms part of Thailand’s longer-term ambitions to develop a complete domestic space industry. GISTDA says this includes supporting future satellite projects while working towards the long-term goal of establishing a spaceport on Thai soil. Matichon reported that the continued development of industrial capability, infrastructure and skilled personnel is expected to provide a foundation for future space-related investment and international collaboration, while increasing the competitiveness of Thai companies in the global satellite manufacturing market. Picture courtesy of Matichon Join the discussion? 9 July 2026
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