Schaeffler, Spire Global Agree to Co-Develop European Space Hardware

German machine and auto parts maker Schaeffler and U.S. satellite operator Spire Global signed a memorandum of understanding on May 27, 2026, to jointly develop space hardware and satellite platforms for European defense, weather and security applications. The companies said in a statement they aim to establish a sovereign European space hardware and mission business before 2030. Spire, which operates a satellite constellation for data and analytics, can produce 300 to 400 satellites per year at its U.S. and European facilities. Schaeffler named space and defense as key growth drivers in its 2035 strategy. The partnership is designed to accelerate Schaeffler's entry into the space sector while strengthening Spire's presence in Germany.