What OHB Digital Connect GmbH does

OHB Digital Connect GmbH is a Bremen-headquartered German space technology company and the largest subsidiary in the DIGITAL business segment of publicly listed parent OHB SE. The company operates from eight German sites plus Luxembourg and Chile with over 350 employees, succeeding MT Mechatronics GmbH and MAN Technologie and inheriting more than 60 years of heritage in large telescope construction beginning with the Parkes Radio Telescope (1959-1961). Its core business is end-to-end satellite ground infrastructure: antenna systems (Full-Motion, Limited-Motion, Turning Head variants), turnkey ground segments, the Multi-Mission Control Center (MMCC), and 24/7 satellite operations services for single satellites and constellations across LEO, MEO, and GEO orbits. Adjacent lines include launch site infrastructure (notably Ariane 6 ELA-4 delivery to CNES), telescope development and modernization for observatories (ALMA, IRAM, MPIfR-Effelsberg, SKAO), cybersecurity for space and critical infrastructure, AI-driven image and telemetry analytics, and high-precision smart mechatronics for medical and industrial applications such as proton therapy gantries and XXL CT scanners.

Revenue is generated through hardware sales of complex engineered systems, project-based professional services, managed satellite operations, and mechatronics delivery, all under direct enterprise sales to government, defense, and institutional clients including ESA, DLR, the German Armed Forces (BAAINBw), French Military, CNES, Luxembourg Government, and SKAO. GTM is enterprise field sales with long-cycle competitive bidding on government contracts and direct procurement from established anchor clients; pricing is not publicly disclosed and is project-specific. Certifications include ISO 9001, 14001, and 27001, and the company is a founding member of EU Space ISAC with active contributions to BSI and ESA cybersecurity standards.

Name

OHB Digital Connect GmbH

Legal name

OHB Digital Connect GmbH

Website

https://ohb-dc.de

Company type

Private

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

101–250 employees

Short description

OHB Digital Connect GmbH is a Bremen-based German space technology subsidiary of OHB SE that designs and operates satellite ground segments, antennas, control centers, telescopes, launch site infrastructure, and AI/cybersecurity services for government, defense, and institutional clients.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Satellite Ground Segment Systems and Space Infrastructure

NAICS

Satellite Telecommunications (5174), Satellite Telecommunications (517410), Computer Systems Design and Related Services (54151)

SIC

Computer Communications Equipment (3576), Radio & Tv Broadcasting & Communications Equipment (3663), Services-Computer Integrated Systems Design (7373)

akta.pro primary industry

Satellite Ground Segment & Gateway Services (Teleports, Gateways, Ground Station-as-a-Service) (HDAIAJAH)

akta.pro secondary industries

Satellite Broadband Terminals & Gateways (VSAT/LEO CPE) (HDAFAIAM), Enterprise Satellite Connectivity & Managed Services (VSAT, SD-WAN over Satcom) (HDAIAJAB), Network, Infrastructure & Data Center Integration (BPAEAAAK)

Keywords

• Satellite ground segments
• Antenna systems
• Satellite operations
• Launch site infrastructure
• Space mechatronics

Headquarters

HQ city

Bremen

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices10 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure, Supply Chain, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Ground Segment Systems & Antennas: Design, development, and delivery of turnkey antenna systems and complete ground stations for satellite communications. Includes Full-Motion, Limited-Motion, and Turning Head antennas.
2. Satellite Operations Services: 24/7 satellite mission operations including LEOP support, routine operations, collision avoidance, and end-of-life management. Provided through Multi-Mission Control Center.
3. Ground Segment Software: Software development covering entire processing chain from data request to commanding, controlling, analyzing and evaluating satellite data with encryption capabilities.
4. Smart Mechatronics Solutions: High-precision mechatronic solutions for non-destructive testing (XXL CT scanners), cancer therapy systems (proton/heavy ion portals), and industrial applications.
5. Launch Site Infrastructure: Design and delivery of rocket launch infrastructure including engine test stands, launch tables, supply towers, and mobile systems for space launch facilities.
6. Cybersecurity Services: Information security implementation for space systems and critical infrastructure, including penetration testing, training, and compliance with ISO 27001 and NIS 2.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels1 record

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

OHB Digital Connect designs, builds and operates satellite ground segment infrastructure — antennas, control centers, ground stations and the Multi-Mission Control Center — alongside launch site facilities, large astronomical telescopes and high-precision mechatronic systems, delivering turnkey midstream space solutions to European defense, space agency and institutional customers. It also provides 24/7 satellite operations, AI-based data analytics and cybersecurity services for space and critical infrastructure.

Product overview

OHB Digital Connect GmbH is a German space technology company and the largest subsidiary in the DIGITAL business segment of OHB SE. The company provides end-to-end solutions for satellite ground infrastructure and space applications, offering a comprehensive portfolio of products and services. The core product portfolio includes: Antenna Systems (Full-Motion Antennas, Limited Motion Antennas, and Turning Head Antennas) for satellite communications across all orbits; the Multi-Mission Control Center (MMCC) for flexible, scalable satellite operations; Ground Segments as turnkey solutions including ground stations, control centers, and software; Satellite Operations for 24/7 mission management; Launch Site Infrastructure for rocket launch facilities; and Telescopes for astronomical research. These are complemented by specialized modules including AI & Data Analytics for image processing and automation, Earth Observation Solutions for remote sensing applications, Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure protection, Smart Mechatronics for precision positioning applications, and Ground Station as a Service. The products work together to deliver complete space-to-ground solutions, from mission design through satellite operations to data processing.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Full-Motion Antennas (FMA) Highly dynamic antennas with full azimuth/elevation tracking that follow satellites continuously across the sky in LEO, MEO and GEO orbits; available with reflectors from 3.7m to 9.3m in S, X, Ku and Ka frequency bands. Designed for satellite operators and government agencies that require continuous TT&C and high-throughput payload connectivity.
• Limited Motion Antennas (LMA) Cost-effective antennas with restricted movement for applications where satellites are in consistent or semi-fixed positions, primarily GEO. Reflector sizes range from 4.0m to 13.0m across S, C, X, Ku and Ka bands. Targets commercial and government customers seeking reliable GEO communications without full-motion tracking cost.
• Turning Head Antennas (THA) Single-axis rotating antennas with limited elevation range for periodic satellite repositioning, available in reflector sizes from 7.5m to 13.0m in single-band and dual-band configurations. Suited to periodic communications needs where full-motion tracking is unnecessary.
• Multi-Mission Control Center (MMCC) Flexible, scalable control center software and infrastructure that simultaneously operates multiple satellite missions across LEO, MEO and GEO orbits and supports the full mission lifecycle from design to end-of-life operations. Built around a modular architecture enabling configuration changes during operation. Used by government and commercial mission owners for multi-mission satellite operations.
• Ground Segments Customized, fully automated ground segment solutions for satellite systems, delivered as turnkey packages that combine ground stations, control centers, training facilities and software. Designed for defense, government and commercial satellite programs requiring integrated ground infrastructure.
• Satellite Operations 24/7 managed satellite mission operations for individual satellites and constellations, including LEOP support, routine operations, collision avoidance and end-of-life/deorbiting management. Delivered via the Multi-Mission Control Center for government and institutional customers such as BAAINBw, ESA and DLR.
• Antennas & Ground Stations Turnkey ground stations and antennas for telemetry, tracking and command (TT&C), payload communications, optical communication, quantum key distribution (QKD), space surveillance, deep space and lunar communication, and geodesy applications, including maintenance and modernization of existing installations.
• Launch Site Infrastructure Ground facilities for rocket launch sites, including engine test stands, launch tables, supply towers, mobile pallet systems and deflectors. Delivered for European launch programs including Ariane 6 ELA-4 components supplied to CNES via MT Aerospace AG.
• Telescopes Worldwide delivery and installation of turnkey large telescopes for astronomical research, including maintenance, upgrades and modernization of existing installations. Backed by more than 60 years of experience originating with the 64m Parkes Radio Telescope (1959-1961) and including work for ALMA, Effelsberg, IRAM and SKAO.

Quantifiable outcome

• Submillimeter precision positioning achievable for 600-ton structures
• +1 more outcomes

Named customers14 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

AI capability6 records

Feature8 records

Partnerships

13 partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and strategic.

• Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits (IIS) - Development Center for X-ray Technology (EZRT)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerStrategic partnership for development of XXL industrial CT scanners. OHB Digital Connect brings mechatronics expertise while Fraunhofer IIS contributes X-ray technology. Jointly developed the XXL Tower CT operational since 2013 and XXL Gantry CT Gulliver for TU Kaiserslautern.
• Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics (ITWM)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaboration on XXL Gantry CT Gulliver project combining OHB's mechatronics with Fraunhofer ITWM's mathematical expertise for industrial computed tomography applications.
• MT Aerospace AGmajorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorMT Aerospace AG contracted OHB Digital Connect as supplier for Ariane 6 launch complex ELA-4 components on behalf of CNES. OHB delivered launch table, mobile pallet systems, 66m supply tower, and deflector.
• CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales)majorStrategic or Co-development PartnerFrench space agency CNES as customer for Ariane 6 launch infrastructure. OHB Digital Connect supplied key components for ELA-4 launch complex in Kourou.
• OHB System AGcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSister company collaboration on Offshore Spaceport project for mobile launch pad enabling small rocket launches from German North Sea. OHB Digital Connect develops ground facilities including rocket preparation hall and launch box.
• OHB Chile SpAcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerWholly-owned subsidiary providing technical services at telescope sites in Chile including support for ALMA observatory and other installations in the region.
• German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI)coreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerBSI partnered with OHB Digital Connect to develop standards for securing Bundeswehr space infrastructure including SAR-Lupe, SARah, and Heinrich Hertz satellite systems.
• German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaboration on BSI working group for Minimum Requirements for IT Security in Space Infrastructures. OHB Digital Connect contributed to BSI TR-03184 technical guideline development.
• European Space Agency (ESA)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerESA partnership including involvement in Cyber Safety and Security Operational Center (CSOC) development, ESA/ESTEC Security Cyber Center of Excellence validation activities, and various space infrastructure projects.
• EU Space ISACstrategicStrategic or Co-development PartnerOHB Digital Connect is a founding member of the EU Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center, contributing to protection of current and future European space infrastructure from cyber attacks.
• Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center (HIT)coreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerDelivered 360-degree rotatable gantry (670 tons) for proton and heavy ion cancer therapy. Structure enables precise radiation source positioning for tumor-targeted treatment.
• TU KaiserslauternmajorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerPartnership for XXL Gantry CT Gulliver development with integrated hydraulic load test stand for non-destructive testing of concrete structures under static and dynamic loads.
• Horizon Europe (EU Program)majorStrategic or Co-development PartnerEu-BEST (European Bench for Engine and Stage Testing) project funded by Horizon Europe. OHB Digital Connect responsible for market analysis, business model, and mechanical structure development of rocket engine test infrastructure.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Swedish Space Corporation (SSC): Operates ground stations at Esrange and globally, provides satellite operations, launch services, and ground-segment engineering. Directly comparable to OHB DC's ground segment, antenna, and satellite operations portfolio, with similar defense and civil agency customers.
• Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT): Norwegian operator of one of the world's largest commercial ground station networks, providing TT&C, data downlink, and mission operations for LEO/MEO satellites. Closely comparable to OHB DC's ground station and 24/7 satellite operations business, including GSaaS-style offerings.
• Telespazio: Italian-headquartered joint venture between Leonardo and Thales providing satellite ground segments, mission operations, and managed connectivity services across Europe. Competes head-to-head with OHB DC on ESA, EU institutional, and defense ground-segment programs.
• GMV: Spanish technology group supplying ground-segment software, satellite control centers, mission analysis, and space cybersecurity to ESA, EU, and defense customers. Closely comparable to OHB DC's MMCC, ground segment software, and cybersecurity offerings.
• Indra: Spanish defense and space integrator providing satellite ground systems, air traffic management, and electronic defense solutions for European ministries. Competes with OHB DC on Spanish and EU defense ground-segment tenders.
• CPI Satcom & Antenna Systems: US-headquartered manufacturer of satellite communications antennas and ground systems across LEO, MEO, and GEO orbits. Directly comparable to OHB DC's Full-Motion, Limited-Motion, and Turning Head Antenna product families.

Emerging players

• Leaf Space: Italian startup operating a global distributed ground-station network and GSaaS offering targeting LEO constellation operators. Overlaps with OHB DC's BEACON and Ground Station-as-a-Service ambitions, though with a more software/commercial-customer focus.
• RBC Signals: US-based provider of Ground Station as a Service with a global antenna partner network. Competes with OHB DC's GSaaS and BEACON offerings on price and flexibility for smallsat operators, but lacks OHB DC's deep European institutional customer base.

Broad incumbents

• Thales Alenia Space: Major European space prime building satellites, space instruments, and ground systems for ESA, EU, and defense customers. Overlaps with OHB DC on turnkey ground-segment programs but operates at significantly larger scale and across the full space value chain.
• Airbus Defence and Space: Europe's largest space prime, providing satellites, launchers, ground systems, and secure communications. Competes with OHB DC for institutional ground-segment and defense contracts, with greater financial firepower and broader geographic reach.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/ohb-digital-connect-gmbh

Compliance3 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Subsidiaries1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about OHB Digital Connect GmbH