AN American space company is exploring the potential to establish regular launch operations from Sutherland Spaceport in the Highlands.
Colorado-based LEAP has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to explore opportunities at the site.
The Sutherland site had previously been earmarked by Orbex for the build of a spaceport. However, it paused construction on the project in late 2024 before entering liquidation in early 2026.
Sutherland could now become LEAP’s first launch site outside of the USA and act as a base to serve its European customers. LEAP is building a dual-use logistics network to move critical payloads anywhere on earth ‘within minutes’, as well as a core service to take small satellites into orbit.
Operations are proposed to begin with LEAP’s Bullfrog vehicle, which was recently tested in the Mojave desert, before progressing to their Bighorn suborbital, point-to-point and orbital missions – with the long-term goal of establishing a recurring launch cadence from Sutherland.
LEAP CEO Chris Beckman said, “We’re not just building a rocket. We’re building a global logistics network, and a network needs launch sites wherever customers require them. Sutherland is an ideal starting point for a network that begins in Europe, and HIE shares our ambition to make recurring spaceflight from Scotland real.”
Under the MOU, the two organisations intend to establish a dedicated launch development workstream focused on creating a practical pathway for LEAP launches. Rather than relying on a small number of launch sites, LEAP pairs mass-produced vehicles with modular factories and transportable launch equipment, so it can add capacity and deploy its services wherever they are required globally.
Each LEAP factory is designed to build more than 30 vehicles a year. The discussions with UK stakeholders are therefore also covering a broader LEAP presence in the Highlands and Islands, including potential manufacturing and test activity, supply chain engagement, local recruitment and skills development, university partnerships, and infrastructure support.
David Oxley, director of strategic projects at HIE, added, “The Highlands and Islands region continues to have a central role in growing the UK space sector. There’s worldwide demand for modern launch facilities and Sutherland is perfectly positioned to be used by a range of companies and help establish Scotland as a major centre of European spaceflight. Since acquiring the assets of Sutherland Spaceport Ltd in August, we have been engaging with the market and exploring options for next steps that will aim to deliver high quality career opportunities and other benefits for the local community.
“This MOU with LEAP is a significant step forward for the site and we look forward to building a productive and mutually beneficial partnership as we continue to develop our plans for Sutherland.”
The Scottish Government’s cabinet secretary for economy, tourism, and transport, Stephen Flynn, said, “This memorandum of understanding is good news for Scotland’s space sector and in particular for businesses and communities in the Highlands and Islands, bringing renewed impetus to unlocking the exciting economic potential of the Sutherland Spaceport.
“I look forward to this agreement playing its part in establishing a strong platform with which to deliver an exciting long-term vision for the spaceport while advancing Scotland’s role and status within the international space industry.”
HIE added that it should be noted that any future launch operations or commercial commitments will remain subject to technical assessment, regulatory approval, and final commercial agreements.
