Announcements

tmc3 Joins Space Humber as Principal Supporter: Securing the Future of Space Innovation in Yorkshire and the Humber

May 6, 2025

Space Humber is delighted to announce that tmc3, the leading cyber security partner for the digital era, has joined as a Founding Partner and official Satellite Communications and Cyber Security Partner of our regional space cluster. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in our mission to build a thriving space ecosystem in Yorkshire and the Humber.

A Partnership Built on Shared Vision

The collaboration between Space Humber and tmc3 represents a natural alignment of values and objectives. Both organisations are committed to fostering innovation, building regional capabilities, and creating sustainable growth opportunities in high-technology sectors.

tmc3's expertise in cyber security, particularly its focus on Government, Defence & Security, Healthcare & Policing, and Critical National Infrastructure, brings invaluable knowledge and resources to the Space Humber community. This expertise is especially relevant as the space sector increasingly intersects with national security interests and critical infrastructure.

A spokesperson for tmc3 said "At tmc3, we specialise in cyber security consultancy with deep expertise across the space and satellite communications domain. Our work spans secure architecture, RF systems assurance, threat modelling and the cyber resilience of space-ground infrastructure. We support UK MOD and national partners with mission-critical advice at the convergence of space systems, cyber threats, and operational risk, ensuring that innovation is delivered securely, by design.

Joining Space Humber reflects our commitment to supporting the UK's growing space sector with the right blend of technical, strategic, and cyber capability. As the UK's space economy continues to grow, we're proud to contribute specialist capability to a collaborative ecosystem and as space becomes increasingly contested and interconnected, the need for secure-by-default design and resilience against cyber and physical threats is critical. We're here to ensure the UK's space assets are not only innovative but also defended, dependable, and future-ready.

We're excited to play a part in this dynamic, forward-thinking community and to support Space Humber in connecting SMEs, primes, academic partners, and policy leaders to drive the UK's space agenda. Whether it's through secure SATCOM and ground systems to emerging sovereign and commercial space capabilities, tmc3 is here to help space ambitions lift off safely, securely, and strategically."

Why Cyber Security Matters in Space

The space industry faces unique security challenges that make tmc3's support particularly valuable:

1. Critical Infrastructure Protection

Space systems are increasingly recognised as critical national infrastructure. According to the UK National Cyber Security Centre, satellite communications, navigation systems, and Earth observation platforms provide essential services that underpin modern society and economic activity.

As businesses in Yorkshire and the Humber develop solutions for the space sector, tmc3's experience in securing critical infrastructure will help ensure these innovations meet the highest security standards.

2. Supply Chain Security

The space industry operates through complex, multi-tiered supply chains where security vulnerabilities at any level can have significant consequences. tmc3's approach to cyber security as an organisational enabler rather than merely an overhead cost aligns perfectly with the needs of space supply chain participants.

Recent research by the European Space Agency (ESA) indicates that supply chain attacks are among the top security concerns for space sector organisations. tmc3's expertise in implementing secure-by-design approaches will help regional businesses address these challenges.

3. Data Protection in the Space Economy

The downstream applications of space technology—particularly Earth observation and satellite communications—generate vast quantities of sensitive data. tmc3's focus on enabling trust in data will be crucial for Yorkshire and Humber businesses developing data-driven space applications.

A 2023 report by the Satellite Applications Catapult highlighted that data security concerns represent one of the primary barriers to wider adoption of satellite data applications. tmc3's support will help regional businesses overcome this hurdle.

Synergies That Benefit the Region

The partnership between Space Humber and tmc3 creates several compelling synergies:

Cyber Security as an Enabler for Space Innovation

tmc3's philosophy of transforming cyber security from a "necessary overhead" into an "organisational enabler" resonates strongly with Space Humber's mission to make space opportunities accessible to regional businesses.

By integrating cyber security considerations from the outset, Yorkshire and Humber space innovators can build trust, accelerate regulatory approval processes, and create more competitive offerings for the global market.

Shared Focus on Strategic Sectors

tmc3's experience in Government, Defence & Security aligns with the increasing investment in space capabilities within these sectors. The UK National Space Strategy, published in 2021, emphasises the importance of space for national security and defence, creating significant opportunities for secure-by-design space solutions.

Space Humber members will benefit from tmc3's deep understanding of these sectors' requirements and procurement processes, helping regional businesses position themselves effectively in these high-value markets.

Complementary Capabilities and Networks

tmc3 brings an extensive network of relationships across government, defence, and critical infrastructure operators. These connections complement Space Humber's links to the wider UK space ecosystem, creating valuable pathways for regional businesses to access new markets and partnerships.

Additionally, tmc3's expertise in capacity building and programme delivery will strengthen Space Humber's ability to support businesses at all stages of their space journey—from initial concept development through to scaled operations.

Mutual Benefits for Long-term Growth

This partnership offers significant advantages to both organisations:

For Space Humber Members

  • Access to world-class cyber security expertise tailored to the unique needs of the space sector
  • Support in designing secure systems that meet the stringent requirements of government and defence customers
  • Guidance on navigating complex regulatory environments where security considerations are paramount
  • Opportunities to participate in joint initiatives at the intersection of space technology and cyber security

For tmc3

  • Opportunities to extend their expertise into the rapidly growing space sector
  • Access to innovative space technology applications that could benefit their existing clients in government, defence, and critical infrastructure
  • Collaboration with cutting-edge space startups and scale-ups in the Yorkshire and Humber region
  • Contribution to regional economic development and the growth of high-value technology jobs

A Word of Thanks

Space Humber extends its sincere gratitude to tmc3 for their visionary support of our regional space cluster. Their commitment to excellence, perceptive understanding of technology challenges, and collaborative approach make them an ideal partner for fostering space innovation in Yorkshire and the Humber.

With tmc3's support, Space Humber is better positioned than ever to help regional businesses secure their place in the space economy of tomorrow—an economy where cyber security is not merely a compliance requirement but a fundamental enabler of innovation and growth.

As tmc3 has demonstrated through their award-winning projects and impressive 98% customer satisfaction rate, when security is done right, it creates value that lasts. We look forward to working together to create lasting value for the Yorkshire and Humber space ecosystem.

Looking Forward

In the coming months, Space Humber and tmc3 will announce a series of joint initiatives designed to strengthen cyber security capabilities within the regional space sector. These will include specialised workshops, mentoring opportunities, and resources tailored to the specific needs of space businesses at different stages of growth.

For businesses interested in learning more about how tmc3's cyber security expertise can support their space ambitions, please contact the Space Humber team to arrange an introduction.