Swedish satellite communications company GSS has signed a cooperation agreement with Thailand’s space agency GISTDA. The GSS Thailand initiative covers potential ground stations, satellite data applications and joint research.
GSS chief executive Alf Öskog and GISTDA executive director Pakorn Apaphant signed the memorandum of understanding on 28 October. The ceremony took place at the Swedish pavilion during Thailand Space Expo in Bangkok, with Swedish Ambassador Anna Hammargren attending.
Arctic Business published details of the agreement on 2 November. It involves GISTDA and the Swedish companies Global Space Services and Global Space Services Technologies.
GSS Thailand cooperation to explore ground stations
The partners will investigate opportunities to establish and operate ground stations, process satellite data and develop applications. They also plan to explore joint research and tools for simulating and analysing satellite communications.
The agreement provides a framework for cooperation. The announcement does not specify a construction timetable or investment value.
GSS operates the Northern Polar Satellite Center near Råneå in northern Sweden. In the announcement, Öskog explained that Thailand’s geography could complement the Swedish station by enabling communications with satellites passing closer to the equator.
The plans also include involving Thai companies and universities. Alongside the agreement, GSS is establishing a Thai subsidiary with support from Thailand’s Board of Investment.
An established Swedish–Thai space connection
GISTDA’s work extends beyond satellite communications. The agency provides geospatial information, supports research and develops applications for public agencies and businesses.
Its National Space Data Platform offers access to satellite imagery and other space-related data, including radar and optical images. The platform supports the acquisition, processing and use of these resources for research and practical applications.
The agency also promotes the development of Thailand’s space industry through its Space Krenovation Park in Si Racha, Chonburi.
Swedish–Thai space cooperation predates the latest agreement. ScandAsia reported on Swedish Space Corporation’s ground-station investment in Thailand in 2021. That earlier project involved SSC, a separate company from GSS.
Sources: Arctic Business, GISTDA National Space Data Platform, GISTDA Space Economy Promotion
