Vilnius: In the heart of Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, a burgeoning space-tech ecosystem is taking shape, spearheaded by the innovative start-up Astrolight. Nestled within the Soviet-era corridors of Vilnius University, Astrolight has carved out a niche in developing cutting-edge laser communication systems. Recently, the company secured £2.8 million ($2.3 million) to advance its “optical data highway” project, which aims to connect satellites with Earth through invisible internet cables.
According to BBC, Astrolight’s efforts have caught the attention of NATO, which integrated the company into its Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) project, established in 2023. This initiative leverages civilian technology to address defense challenges. Astrolight’s fast and secure laser communications are already employed by the Lithuanian Navy to transmit crucial intelligence during operations, offering a hack-proof and low-detectability alternative to traditional radio communications.
Despite Lithuania’s relatively modest £2.5 billion defense budget, its spending as a percentage of GDP surpasses many larger nations, including the UK. Lithuania allocates around 3% of its GDP to defense, with plans to increase this to 5.5%. The country’s strength in niche technologies like Astrolight’s lasers is also reflected in its space projects, with 30% receiving EU funding, compared to the EU average of 17%.
Invest Lithuania’s Šarunas Genys highlights the strategic integration of space technology into Lithuania’s defense and resilience strategy. The dual-use nature of space tech is exemplified by Delta Biosciences, which is preparing a mission to test radiation-resistant compounds on the International Space Station. Additionally, Vilnius-based Kongsberg NanoAvionics is set to manufacture hundreds of satellites, supporting encrypted communications and real-time intelligence across NATO’s eastern flank.
Astrolight is not alone in this technological frontier. Another Lithuanian start-up, Blackswan Space, has developed an autonomous satellite navigation system, allowing satellites to be independently programmed and repositioned. This technology has military applications, from destroying enemy satellites to training soldiers via battle simulations. However, Blackswan’s Chief Commercial Officer, Tomas Malinauskas, expresses concerns over government funding not matching the sector’s innovation.
Despite these challenges, the Lithuanian government recognizes the importance of investing in space tech. Minister for Economy and Innovation, Lukas Savickas, acknowledges the need to support this high-value sector, which intersects with various fields like biotech, AI, and ICT. The drive for innovation remains strong, with entrepreneurs like Dominykas Milasius of Delta Biosciences emphasizing Lithuania’s need to build critical technologies to maintain its geopolitical relevance.