The Changing Shape of Global Space: Investigating the Global Space Industry Structure 

DOMINIC WALLEY, ALAN WEBB, ROBIN TUCKER

2026.79.0155

DOI https://doi.org/10.59332/jbis-079-05-0155

This paper examines the evolving structure of the global space sector, tracing its roots in Cold War industrial models, analysing the rise of modern space primes, and assessing the transformation of global supply chains, geographic clusters, and national sectoral structures. Using historical evidence, industry data and structural analysis, the paper identifies the forces reshaping the global space economy and offers predictions about how these will influence industrial organisation, market entry, and international competition. The findings highlight an increasingly diverse global industry characterised by the coexistence of large incumbent primes and a growing long tail of innovative smaller firms.

Keywords: Space Industry, Global Primes, Supply Chains, Industrial Structure, UK Space Sector, Commercial Space, International Competition