Flexell Space and NanoAvionics Partner on Solar Arrays for South Korean Satellites
In a significant development for the global space industry, South Korean space energy startup Flexell Space and leading small satellite manufacturer NanoAvionics have announced a multi-million-euro contract to supply solar arrays for a crucial South Korean satellite program. This strategic partnership will directly support the development of K-LEO, the nation’s sovereign Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation designed for national security purposes.
The agreement, signed on March 18, 2026, marks a key milestone for both companies and underscores the growing importance of international collaboration in advancing national space capabilities.
A Strategic Partnership Featuring Korean satellite solar arrays
Under the terms of the agreement, NanoAvionics, a Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace company, will be responsible for the design and manufacture of the deployable solar arrays. Flexell Space, a startup that originated from Hanwha Systems, will oversee the final technical validation, quality assurance, and integration of these arrays into the satellites being developed by Hanwha Systems.
This division of labor leverages the core strengths of each partner: NanoAvionics’ proven expertise in satellite bus manufacturing and subsystem design, and Flexell’s specialized focus on space-grade energy solutions and its deep integration within the South Korean space ecosystem. The first delivery of solar cells for the project is scheduled for the second half of 2027.
Beyond the Contract: Innovating Korean satellite solar arrays for Future Missions
The collaboration extends beyond the immediate needs of the K-LEO program. The two companies are also exploring the integration of Flexell’s advanced solar cell technologies into NanoAvionics’ standard CubeSat and microsatellite platforms. This forward-looking initiative aims to incorporate Flexell’s innovative copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) and perovskite solar cells, which promise to reduce costs and enhance design flexibility while matching the high efficiency of traditional gallium arsenide cells.
This research and development effort could make highly efficient solar power solutions more accessible and scalable for a wide range of future satellite missions.
Leadership Weighs In on Korean satellite solar arrays
Leaders from both companies have highlighted the strategic value of the partnership.
Taehun (Tim) Ahn, CEO of Flexell Space, noted that the collaboration strengthens quality verification processes and will accelerate the integration of next-generation solar cell technologies into the global space market.
Atle Woello, CEO of Kongsberg NanoAvionics, stated that the deal showcases the company’s robust expertise in producing critical satellite subsystems. He also emphasized the growing interest from Korean national security missions in their advanced solutions, building on NanoAvionics’ expanding presence in the country, which includes previous work with the Institute for Basic Science.
Strengthening South Korea’s Sovereign Space Capabilities with Korean satellite solar arrays
The K-LEO constellation is a cornerstone of South Korea’s ambition to establish sovereign capabilities in defense and secure communications from space. By providing a reliable and advanced power source for these satellites, the Flexell and NanoAvionics partnership plays a vital role in ensuring the success and operational longevity of this critical national asset. This deal solidifies a key supply chain component for the program, which also sees Hanwha Systems pursuing collaborations with other global space leaders.
