Vietnamese startup VinSpace JSC is sending its first satellites to orbit with the help of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, as it aims to become a “full-stack aerospace company” and boost Vietnam’s space industry.
The landmark mission will begin in the second quarter of 2027 under a newly signed agreement between the two companies, VinSpace announced on Tuesday.
The Hanoi-based company said its satellites will blast off aboard SpaceX’s Transporter rideshare spacecraft, which can carry up to 140 satellites in a single flight.
VinSpace’s roadmap
It did not reveal the amount of the agreement, but a 50-kilogram payload slot for a Transporter rideshare mission typically costs $350,000.
“The agreement marks a significant milestone in VinSpace’s roadmap to build comprehensive aerospace capabilities, advancing its mission to foster the development of Vietnam’s space industry,” VinSpace said in a statement.
The agreement comes three months after the inauguration of the Vietnam National Space Center for domestic satellite development, and nine months after VinSpace’s inception, backed by a $11.4-million charter capital.
VinSpace is primarily owned by Vietnam’s richest tycoon Pham Nhat Vuong and operates under the diversified conglomerate Vingroup JSC.
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Foundation for future satellite deployments
According to the agreement, VinSpace will develop and manufacture satellites and handle their on-orbit operations.
The upcoming mission will test the company’s orbital technology as well build the foundation for the commercialization of space technologies and Vietnam’s future space deployments.
It also aims to transform VinSpace into a leading full-stack aerospace company spanning the space value chain.
From satellite design and manufacturing to assembly, integration and testing; launch mission management; satellite operations; and development of remote-sensing products and ground-based space data services.
“Reliable access to space is fundamental to turning satellite innovation into operational missions,” said Vu Trong Vu, chief executive officer of VinSpace.
“This contract with SpaceX is an important milestone in VinSpace’s long-term strategy to help build Vietnam’s space ecosystem and strengthen the country’s position within the global space economy.”
Vu is known for overseeing F-1 CubeSat, the country’s first domestically made nanosatellite launched into orbit from the International Space Station in 2012.
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Ian Trinidad 
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