Figure 1. EXA engineers reviewing Colossus prior to deliver
Written by Huma Siddiqui from Financial Express
Updated: February 27, 2024 13:06 IST
The trend of Indian private sector companies seeking partnerships with counterparts in the LAC region reflects a recognition of shared challenges and innovative solutions emerging from the Global South.
The trend of Indian private sector companies seeking collaborations with counterparts in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region has become increasingly prominent in recent years. EXA, Ecuador based, a key player in the space industry, has actively engaged in partnerships with several Indian companies, operating as both a provider and a customer.
“These collaborations have yielded positive outcomes, fostering smooth interactions and fruitful endeavours,” Cdr Ronnie Nader – EXA Astronaut, CE/CTO & Space Operations Director – EXA (Ecuador) tells Financial Express Online.
Why?
According to him, the decision by Indian companies to explore partnerships with entities in the LAC region is rooted in various factors. “Firstly, both regions share a common identity as part of the Global South, facing similar challenges and opportunities. This shared background facilitates a deeper understanding and synergy, enhancing the potential for successful collaborations. Additionally, restrictive policies imposed by Western nations on the sale of crucial technologies to the Global South have spurred innovation and self-reliance within these regions,” Cdr Ronnie Nader explains.
Responding to Financial Express Online, he says, “As we develop our own technologies and the results are even better and cheaper than western restricted technologies, we have found that our products are more competitive and are very sought after by other countries in the non-western world facing the same restrictions that we faced.”
In his view the strategic significance of partnering with space companies in the LAC region is underscored by the region’s growing expertise in space-related technologies. “While specific details of these partnerships are governed by non-disclosure agreements, it is notable that over 15 Indian companies are actively involved in collaborations with counterparts in the LAC region. These partnerships encompass various technological domains, including power systems, communication technologies, mechanical components, and software solutions,” he adds.
What are the Space Companies offering?
“From EXA’s perspective, we offer technologies on power, like solar arrays, solar cells, batteries and Power Systems such as Colossus PCDU and TITAN-2 Battery Pack Family, etc, in the communications sector we have GNSS antennas, S-Band and UHF antennas and also SDR and FHDR radios, we also trade in Ground Stations components and full systems including software. On the Indian side the capabilities offered are in the fields of high-quality PCB and circuit manufacturing, high precision mechanical components, flight and ground software.,” he says.
Future Collaboration between Indian and LAC space Companies
Looking ahead, the future of collaboration in the space sector between Indian and LAC companies appears promising. According to him, annual symposiums or workshops could provide platforms for professionals to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and explore potential collaborations further. Adding, “Additionally, exclusive trade shows could serve as valuable forums for highlighting capabilities and strengthening ties between the regions.”
The trend of Indian private sector companies seeking partnerships with counterparts in the LAC region reflects a recognition of shared challenges and innovative solutions emerging from the Global South. Through strategic collaborations and concerted efforts, these regions can enhance their capabilities in the space sector, fostering mutual growth and prosperity.
Read the original article in Financial Express