
York Space Systems to acquire ATLAS Space Operations
York Space Systems, a US-based defence technology company known for redefining how space-based capabilities are built and operated, has announced its agreement to acquire ATLAS Space Operations. A Ground Software as a Service (GSaaS) provider, ATLAS is expected to significantly enhance Yorks software-driven approach to satellite communications and ground systems.
With this acquisition, York gains access to a software-led ground architecture designed to streamline satellite operations, eliminate integration barriers, and improve space-to-ground resiliency. The deal is set to accelerate Yorks mission of delivering secure, high-performance space systems with greater speed and efficiency. ATLAS will play a critical role in supporting Yorks Golden Dome architecture, an advanced defense platform integrating spacecraft, software, and ground operations to offer comprehensive capabilities in contested space environments.
ATLAS, which was founded in 2015, will continue to operate independently under its established brand. Its Freedom software platform, which provides cloud-native satellite connectivity through a single API and a global network of more than 50 antennas in over 20 countries, is the only GSaaS solution developed and based in the US. The platform shifts the burden of satellite communications from hardware to software, allowing for real-time tasking, automated scheduling, and cloud delivery of mission data, resulting in a cost-effective, scalable, and flexible solution for both government and commercial clients.
Dirk Wallinger, CEO of York, said: 'ATLAS has built one of the most sophisticated and secure ground communications platforms in the industry. This acquisition will enhance York's ability to deliver mission-ready systems on the timelines our customers demand while continuing to support the broader space ecosystem with best-in-class ground solutions.'
The Freedom platform enables operatorswhether managing a single satellite or a vast constellationto onboard quickly, stream data to the cloud, and access a global infrastructure without the need for additional physical buildout.
Corey Geer, CEO of ATLAS, added: 'York shares our vision for a future where space systems are faster, smarter, and seamlessly integrated. Together, we are building the infrastructure to meet that future head-on, reducing risk, increasing resilience, and enabling critical data delivery on demand.'
Pending regulatory approvals including from the FCC, the acquisition is expected to significantly strengthen Yorks ability to deliver integrated, mission-ready space systems by combining its high-performance spacecraft and software-defined operations with ATLASs trusted ground communications capabilities. The result will be faster deployment, improved data throughput, and more autonomous, resilient operations supporting both commercial ventures and national security missions.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Al Etihad
an hour ago
- Al Etihad
UAE's Calidus concludes successful participation at IDEF 2025 in Istanbul
27 July 2025 20:02 ISTANBUL (WAM)UAE-based Calidus Holding Group has concluded its successful participation in the 17th edition of the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), held at the Istanbul Expo Centre from July 22 to 27, as part of the UAE National Pavilion, supervised by Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement (Tawazun).The Calidus stand witnessed strong engagement from senior officials, military leaders, and official delegations from around the world, who praised the advanced capabilities of the UAE's defence industry and commended Calidus products for their reliability, precision, and competitiveness on regional and global the exhibition, Calidus signed several agreements and memorandums of understanding, including an MoU with Türkiye's Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB) to support supply chain collaboration and industrial localisation programmes, as well as an MoU with CTech to explore joint satellite communications and data link projects for military Director and CEO of Calidus Holding Group, Dr. Khalifa Murad Al Blooshi, stated that the participation significantly boosted the company's international presence and showcased the technological innovations of the UAE's defence sector, particularly in AI-driven and next-generation defence solutions, all designed and manufactured exhibited a range of advanced solutions, including the MATV armoured combat support vehicle integrated with the Al Hedaa missile launcher, six variants of the Al Hedaa system, models of the B-250 light attack and B-250T advanced trainer aircraft, a mock-up of the CLS military vehicle production facility, and cutting-edge electro-optical and infrared company also presented its locally manufactured military chassis, built for high-load and extreme-condition performance. The company emphasised that its IDEF 2025 participation aligns with its broader vision to strengthen the UAE's role as a key player in the global defence landscape through technology localisation, strategic autonomy, and regional and international market expansion.


Middle East Eye
6 hours ago
- Middle East Eye
IMF warns against Egypt's military dominance over economy
In arguably its bluntest report to date, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned that Egypt's military-controlled economic model is crippling private sector growth, deterring investors and keeping the country in a cycle of debt and underperformance. In its long-delayed staff report for the fourth review of Egypt's loan programme, the IMF noted: 'The economic landscape is dominated by public-driven investments, an uneven playing field, and state-owned entities, including military ones.' The IMF further warned that military-owned firms continue to enjoy 'preferential treatment', including tax breaks, cheap land and privileged access to credit and public contracts. Such privileges, the 202-page report notes, have continued to sideline private sector competitors and distort the market. While Cairo has taken some economic steps - such as floating the pound, slashing subsidies and launching a state ownership policy - the IMF says progress has been 'uneven and slow', leaving many of the country's key problems unresolved. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters Public debt remains high, and Egypt's external debt is expected to rise from $156.7bn to $180.6bn in the current fiscal year, deepening the country's financial strain, according to the IMF. Meanwhile, everyday Egyptians are bearing the brunt, grappling with soaring inflation, declining ages and a shrinking safety net, the report suggests. A flawed economic model The military's grip on Egypt's economy is not new. It dates back to the 1950s, following the July 1952 revolution, when army officers overthrew the monarchy. But the generals' economic role expanded significantly after the 2011 uprising, when the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) assumed control following the ouster of long-time autocrat Hosni Mubarak. The situation even worsened under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who technically assumed power in 2013 after he had led a coup that removed Egypt's first democratically elected president, Mohamed Morsi. Egypt's Sisi accused of 'giving away' strategic Red Sea land of Ras Shukeir after decree Read More » One of the IMF's central concerns is the ongoing expansion of military-run businesses in non-defence sectors, operating behind closed doors, with little transparency or public oversight. The military has steadily expanded its role in construction, agriculture and other civilian sectors, justifying its reach by claiming to deliver major national projects and secure economic stability. But experts argue that this flawed model pushes out the private sector and reinforces a non-transparent economic elite. 'Military involvement in the country's economy undermined competition, discouraged private investment, and distorted market signals, creating a dual economy - one transparent and risky - and the other opaque and protected,' a Cairo-based economist told Middle East Eye on condition of anonymity for security concerns. The expert's view is echoed by a construction contractor in the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, who also asked to remain anonymous for similar reasons. 'Military involvement in the country's economy undermined competition' - Egyptian economist 'Before the army stepped into our industry, I used to have three projects running in and around Alexandria,' he told MEE. 'Now, I'm lucky if I get one a year. We just can't compete with the pricing or timelines of military-backed companies.' In 2019, Mohamed Ali, a former contractor now living in self-imposed exile in Spain, blew the whistle on the military's business dealings, sharing explosive behind-the-scenes details in a series of viral videos and social media posts. His revelations sent shock waves through Egypt, sparking rare public outrage and calls for accountability in a country where questioning the military is often taboo. In an exclusive interview with MEE, Ali revealed that he received state-funded projects without contracts or oversight. His claims, supported by the IMF's latest report, painted a picture of a shadow economy that avoids scrutiny. The IMF's latest report reflects those alarms, reinforcing long-standing concerns about secrecy and privilege in Egypt's economic system. 'While some private sector representatives reported improved access to foreign exchange,' the IMF noted, 'others flagged an uneven playing field in key sectors.' The report also pointed to 'gaps in transparency and accountability' in both state-run and military-affiliated companies. According to the report, military-owned and state-run firms benefit from tax exemptions, access to prime land and cheap labour, all while operating with very limited transparency about their finances. In industries like cement, steel, and marble and granite, military firms control up to 36 percent of the market, making it nearly impossible for genuine private competition to develop. An earlier section of the report noted that the 'reallocation of public spending towards military-related or high-profile projects diverts resources from more productive uses, and undermines long-term growth potential', cautioning that ongoing public sector control can discourage foreign investment and crowd out domestic enterprise. Credibility at stake The fifth and sixth reviews of Egypt's $8bn loan programme have now been merged and delayed, another sign of the IMF's mounting frustration. The delay highlights Cairo's slow progress on key commitments, especially privatising state and army-run companies and reducing fiscal vulnerabilities that still burden the economy. As part of its commitments to the IMF, the Egyptian government has promised to sell stakes in 11 state-owned enterprises by mid-2027. Four of these companies are military-owned, including Wataniya Petroleum and Safi, a bottled water company that has faced long-standing criticism for its lack of financial transparency. IMF more than doubles Egypt bailout deal to $8bn following devaluation Read More » The plan aims to increase private sector involvement and restore investor confidence. However, progress has been slow. Both Wataniya and Safi have been moved to the Sovereign Fund of Egypt to prepare them for sale. Two other military-affiliated companies - ChillOut, a fuel station chain, and Silo Foods - a large food processing business, are also set to be offered to local and foreign investors as part of the state's broader privatisation effort. While Gulf investors have consistently expressed interest in buying these military-run businesses, the deals have faced continuous delays, despite numerous promises and public statements from Egyptian officials. No clear timeline has been established, which raises questions about the government's willingness and ability to fulfil its privatisation commitments. Despite Egypt's shift to a flexible foreign exchange rate in March 2024, commended by the international lender, the report made it clear that Cairo must keep up with reforms to secure the next $2.5bn loan tranche. 'Preserving exchange rate flexibility and rebuilding credibility in the monetary framework will be critical,' the IMF explained. With public debt soaring and economic inequality deepening, the IMF's warning comes at a crucial moment. 'Unless exclusive benefits offered to military and state firms are lifted and transparency is ensured, private businesses will continue to hold back. The IMF's message is crystal clear. Sustainable growth requires fair play, not to protect a powerful few who avoid public scrutiny,' the economist concluded.


Khaleej Times
6 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Pakistan says it's close to US trade deal, Washington gives no timeline
Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Friday the United States and Pakistan were "very close" to a trade deal that could come within days, but comments from the U.S. after Dar met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned no timeline. "I think we are very close to finalizing a deal with U.S. Our teams have been here in Washington, discussing, having virtual meetings and a committee has been tasked by the prime minister to fine-tune now," Dar said in a discussion at the Atlantic Council think tank in Washington. "It's not going to be months, not even weeks, I would say (just) days," he said. Under U.S. President Donald Trump, Washington has attempted to renegotiate trade agreements with many countries that he threatened with tariffs over what he calls unfair trade relations. Many economists dispute Trump's characterization. The U.S. State Department and Pakistan's foreign ministry, in separate statements after Rubio's meeting with Dar, said the two stressed in their discussion the importance of expanding trade and ties in critical minerals and mining. A post by Rubio on X after the meeting and the State Department's statement mentioned no timeline for finalizing a trade deal. The Pakistan foreign ministry also said Dar "appreciated the pivotal role" by Trump and Rubio "in de-escalating tensions between Pakistan and India by facilitating a ceasefire." The State Department statement did not mention India. Trump has repeatedly taken credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire he announced on social media on May 10 after Washington held talks with both sides. India disputes Trump's claims that the ceasefire resulted from his intervention and trade threats. India's position is that New Delhi and Islamabad must resolve problems directly with no outside involvement. An April 22 militant attack in India-administered Kashmir killed 26 men and sparked heavy fighting between the nuclear-armed Asian neighbors in the latest escalation of a decades-old rivalry. India struck Pakistan on May 7 and the two nations exchanged hostilities, killing dozens across three days. The ceasefire was declared on May 10. New Delhi blamed the April attack on Pakistan, which denied responsibility and called for a neutral investigation. Washington condemned the attack but did not blame Islamabad.