Germany’s OHB considers legal challenge over planned EU satellite merger

Thursday 07 May 2026 - 15:15

German satellite manufacturer OHB SE has indicated it may pursue legal action if European Union regulators approve a major satellite merger involving Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo.

The planned deal, announced in October under the code name “Project Bromo,” aims to combine the satellite manufacturing divisions of the three aerospace and defence groups into a single standalone company. Supporters of the merger argue that the consolidation would strengthen Europe’s position in the global space industry, allowing it to better compete with major international players such as SpaceX and emerging Asian rivals.

However, OHB has expressed concern that the creation of a large satellite conglomerate could reduce competition within Europe’s aerospace supply chain. The company is one of the few independent satellite manufacturers operating in the region and warns that the merger could shift market dynamics in an unfavourable direction for smaller firms.

OHB’s chief executive stated that the proposal could disrupt existing industrial relationships and reshape procurement structures across the sector. He added that the company is closely monitoring the regulatory process and would consider legal action if the European Commission grants approval for the deal.

European competition authorities are expected to assess whether the merger would primarily enhance global competitiveness or whether it could strengthen the dominance of major contractors within the European market.

The outcome of the decision could have significant implications for the continent’s space industry, which has been under increasing pressure to consolidate in order to compete with rapidly expanding international aerospace programmes.