Leanspace, a European leader in satellite operations technology, has announced a strategic partnership with Qwaltec, a US-based defense contractor. This collaboration aims to deliver advanced spacecraft operations solutions tailored for the US market. Qwaltec’s integration into Leanspace’s partner ecosystem will enhance the availability of agile, resilient, and secure ground segment infrastructure for US satellite operators.
Based in Strasbourg, France, Leanspace specializes in cloud-native satellite and ground segment operations, offering a modular software platform designed for mission-critical applications. Having expanded its presence in the United States since 2023, Leanspace has already established a client base that includes several US satellite operators utilizing its innovative platform.
By partnering with Qwaltec, Leanspace addresses critical compliance concerns for US customers. With Qwaltec’s reputation as a trusted US supplier, the partnership ensures that satellite operations and data management are handled domestically. Qwaltec brings over 25 years of experience working with prominent organizations such as NASA and the US Space Force.
Guillaume Tanier, CEO of Leanspace, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “The USA is a key priority for us as we are seeing incredible demand for our technology in this market. Our strategy is to work with trusted local experts, and in the US, we see Qwaltec as a perfect fit.” This collaboration is expected to empower Qwaltec to provide their clients with next-generation, software-defined ground segments, ensuring operations are managed securely on US soil.
Focus on Commercial and Institutional Markets
The partnership will focus on developing off-the-shelf products for satellite control and mission planning, with Qwaltec leading the charge in creating a new product line that leverages the Leanspace platform. As a US reseller for existing Leanspace products, Qwaltec will also support ad-hoc customizations and operational assistance.
This initiative eliminates compliance hurdles for US companies handling sensitive data, particularly within the defense sector. Customers can now procure Leanspace’s cloud-native technology directly through Qwaltec, significantly streamlining the process.
In the institutional sector, Qwaltec plans to implement mission-critical solutions for both civilian and defense space programs. By utilizing the cloud-native Leanspace platform, Qwaltec will deliver secure, software-defined ground segments that can advance or replace outdated systems. Their offerings will include maintenance and support, alongside on-site and remote operational guidance.
The partnership promises several key advantages for US satellite operators. It enables cost-effective management of large, diverse satellite fleets on a unified infrastructure. Additionally, it enhances operational agility, allowing for rapid mission reconfiguration and software evolution. The collaboration also aims to improve resilience, ensuring mission continuity while reducing vulnerabilities through agile hybrid cloud deployments.
Shawn Linam, CEO of Qwaltec, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “As long-time satellite operators and ground system developers, we immediately recognized the value of Leanspace’s flexible platform. It’s a powerful foundation for building the agile, secure, and mission-ready solutions our customers need.”
Both Leanspace and Qwaltec will showcase their offerings at the upcoming Small Satellite Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, from August 10 to 13, 2025. Attendees can visit booth #1709 for Leanspace and #405 for Qwaltec to discuss their needs and participate in live demonstrations of Command & Control, Mission Planning, and Ground Station Management products.
About Qwaltec: Founded in 2001, Qwaltec is a woman-owned small business specializing in efficient and cost-effective ground system solutions for government and commercial space programs. With extensive expertise in systems engineering and mission operations, Qwaltec is a trusted partner to organizations including NASA and the US Department of Defense.
About Leanspace: Established in 2020, Leanspace provides innovative software solutions for satellite and ground segment operations. Their platform integrates APIs and data-handling services to support mission-critical systems throughout the satellite lifecycle. With operations in both France and the US, Leanspace has quickly become a key player in the global satellite operations sector.
