Israel and Hungary Sign Landmark Space Cooperation Agreement
The framework deal paves the way for joint projects in satellites, Earth observation, robotics, and science education—linking Israeli industry and research with Hungary’s rapidly expanding space sector
Photo credit: Raphael Mikes
On the Hungarian side, the agreement was signed by National Economy Minister Márton Nagy, who is responsible for the development of the country’s space industry. The agreement is intended to deepen scientific and strategic cooperation between the two countries and is part of a broader trend of strengthening Israel’s ties with key players on the international stage.
According to the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, this is the second space-related agreement Israel has signed this year, following the memorandum of understanding with Azerbaijan in April 2025. The agreement sets out a legal and programmatic framework for cooperation in areas such as satellites, Earth observation, robotics, and science education. It includes exchanges of knowledge and experts, the organization of conferences and workshops, and the establishment of a joint steering committee to oversee its implementation.
The background to the agreement is linked to recent developments in Hungary, where in November 2024 the communications company 4iG announced the HUSAT program – the largest private satellite project in Hungary and Central-Eastern Europe.
The program includes a geostationary communications satellite (HUGEO) as well as an eight-satellite Earth observation constellation (HULEO), consisting of six electro-optical satellites and two SAR radar satellites. The satellites will be developed at a new manufacturing facility in the city of Martonvásár, which is expected to open in 2026. The GEO satellite and the first satellites in the constellation are expected to enter service by the end of 2028.
The agreement between Israel and Hungary is also intended to enable Israeli companies to compete for and participate in these projects, which represent a significant leap forward for Hungary’s space industry. This opens the door for Israeli industry to integrate into the Hungarian market.
Dr. Shimrit Maman, Chair of the Israel Space Agency, noted that the agreement is an important milestone in the web of international cooperation: “The agreement will connect Israel’s scientific, research, and industrial capabilities with our Hungarian partners, for the benefit of developing applied research, advancing the education system, and deepening cooperation with academia and industry.”