Shield Space, a UK defence tech start-up developing systems to protect satellites from signal jamming or attack, has raised £2m in funding led by Mercia Ventures. The funding will support the launch of its first orbital test flight.
Shield Space’s autonomous AI guidance systems enable satellites to identify potential threats and rapidly manoeuvre out of the way. About a fifth of the UK economy - or £450 billion - is underpinned by space-based services such as communications and GPS, which are considered critical national infrastructure.
Incidents of satellite jamming have been increasing year on year, alongside the threat of direct attacks by hostile powers and risks from space debris. UK Space Command believes there are now 220 counterspace systems in orbit with the potential to damage or destroy satellites.
Currently, satellite responses to threats are often too slow as movements are controlled by teams on the ground. Shield Space’s technology enables satellites to manoeuvre away from threats without ground intervention.
Shield Space was founded in 2025 by Graeme Ritchie and Dan Molland, who met while working at UK Space Command. The funding will enable the company to move into new premises in Lincoln, create five new jobs and launch its first test flight in early 2027.
Much of modern life depends on space - our adversaries understand this and deliberately exploit uncertainty and delay. Our ambition is to give the UK, NATO and its allies sovereign space capabilities to operate decisively in contested environments. Space will have its Battle of Britain moment, just as air power did in 1940. Establishing our operations in the Midlands and growing our team is critical to ensure we are ready when that moment arrives.
Graeme Ritchie, Co-founder & CEO
Shield Space will not only help secure space, but also deliver significant cost savings by enabling satellites to respond in real time without access to space networks or costly operational teams. We aim to make the UK safer and stronger and establish its reputation as a credible space power.
Dan Molland, Co-founder & CTO
As we embark on the start of a new space age, protecting our space assets has become a national priority. Shield Space is addressing this challenge. We are proud to be leading this investment, which will enable the team to accelerate development and ultimately to enhance the security of the UK and its NATO allies.
Amrit Sami, Partner at Mercia Ventures
Backing start-ups in the manufacturing and technology sectors is a key priority for the British Business Bank. Shield Space’s technology has the potential to safeguard strategic assets in space, and this latest funding will support its first flight launch. It is encouraging to see the Greater Lincolnshire Mayor’s commitment to helping businesses in the region to start up, scale up and grow. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we are pleased to help companies access the capital they need through our investment funds.
Louis Taylor, CEO of the British Business Bank
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