Qinetiq collaboration launches Newtec into Belgian space

Satcom specialist Newtec is entering the Belgian space market. The company from Sint-Niklaas has announced that its Manufacturing Competence Center (MCC) in nearby Erpe-Mere was chosen by Qinetiq to provide the soldering of onboard electronics for two projects. From its site in Kruibeke, which it acquired when it bought Verhaert Space back in 2005 (link in Dutch), the British aerospace and defense firm selected the MCC due to the advantages of working with a partner in close proximity, including cost-effectiveness and convenience.

Under the agreement, Newtec will work on two initiatives: the International Berthing and Docking Mechanism (IBDM) and the development of onboard computers for the next generation of satellites Qinetiq is planning to build. The IBDM, which is being developed together with the European Space Agency (ESA), will enable vehicles carrying cargo or passengers to dock softly at any space station with less force. The collaboration with Qinetiq will contribute towards Newtec’s ESA certification, which the company hopes to complete by 2020.

“Our partnership with Newtec has brought a number of benefits, including maximum cost-effectiveness and convenience due to the location being near our Space Center, which will prove particularly useful should any problems arise,” said Frank Preud’homme, Commercial Director at Qinetiq. “Over the years, Newtec’s MCC has proved itself to be more than competent in providing services to a number of different industries. We’re sure it will also see success in the space segment as it continues to expand.”