Overview
- Schaeffler and U.S. satellite operator Spire have signed a nonbinding letter of intent under which Schaeffler will build complex reaction wheels, the motors that control a satellite's orientation in orbit.
- The companies say the cooperation will first focus on securing and scaling supply chains for critical subsystems and then examine industrialising satellite buses and sensors in Europe.
- Schaeffler has estimated roughly €250 million of revenue from Spire over five years but the figure is a company projection tied to converting the LOI into binding contracts and successful production.
- Investors reacted positively to the announcement, sending Schaeffler shares sharply higher, and the move fits the firm's Strategic Ambition 2035 plan to diversify beyond automotive into space, defence and robotics.
- If executed, the programme could boost European sovereignty for key satellite components and create local high‑precision manufacturing jobs, but delivery depends on supply‑chain scaling, pilot production and formal contracts.