Swissto12, a Swiss satellite manufacturing company, has secured a substantial $70 million in Series C funding to bolster its small geostationary satellite production capabilities. This investment comes as the company experiences a surge in demand for its innovative satellite subsystems, antennas, and multi-orbit payloads, particularly its HummingSat, a compact satellite the size of a washing machine designed for geostationary orbit (GEO).
The company's CEO, Emile de Rijk, highlighted the growing interest in small GEO satellites, which are increasingly seen as a solution for multi-orbit, disaggregated constellations. This shift in demand is driven by the emergence of low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband constellations, which have reduced the need for conventional GEO satellites. As a result, small GEO specialists like Swissto12 are offering more affordable, scaled-down spacecraft tailored to regional markets.
Swissto12's focus on lightweight antennas, filters, and radio frequency components, combined with its expansion into complete payloads and satellites, has led to a diverse portfolio. Over 2,000 of its products are currently deployed on active missions, including equipment for LEO constellations. The company's diversified position as both a payload and payload product provider, as well as a satellite integrator, positions it well for growth across all orbits.
Swissto12's revenue in 2025 was $140 million, and it is projected to achieve positive earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) in 2026. The company has achieved a remarkable 110% compound annual growth rate since 2022, when it sold its first HummingSat. This success has attracted significant investment, with previous rounds led by venture capital firms Swisscom Ventures and Swisscanto Invest.
The company's partnerships with European Space Agency member states, including an $84.8 million award, and its presence in the U.S. market, where it competes with Astranis, a small GEO rival, further solidify its position in the industry. Swissto12's approach of selling capacity via long-term leases, rather than operating the satellites itself, sets it apart from competitors. This strategy allows customers to own and operate the HummingSats they order, providing flexibility and ownership.
As Swissto12 continues to innovate and expand its capabilities, it is poised to play a significant role in the evolving satellite industry, catering to the growing demand for small GEO satellites and contributing to the development of multi-orbit, disaggregated constellations.
