York Space Systems has acquired Orbion Space Technology as part of a push to expand its satellite propulsion capabilities and strengthen its supply chain for spacecraft systems.
The latest acquisition comes as activity across the national security and commercial space sectors continues to evolve. Industry developments like this are part of the broader landscape that government and business leaders are navigating as they advance air and space capabilities. Join the conversation at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Air and Space Summit on July 30. Register today to save your seat.
Denver-based York said Thursday the transaction strengthens its integrated space ecosystem and supports its strategy to align propulsion with spacecraft design and mission operations while expanding domestic production capacity.
York will operate Orbion as a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary in support of customers across the broader space industry.
What Is Orbion Space Technology?
Orbion Space Technology designs and produces Hall-effect electric thrusters used on satellites supporting constellation-scale missions.
Established in 2016, the Michigan-based company manufactures Aurora electric propulsion systems that are currently flying on York-built spacecraft supporting U.S. national security missions, including satellites operating within military constellations.
What Did York & Orbion Leaders Say About the Transaction?
Dirk Wallinger, founder and CEO of York, said the transaction builds on an established relationship between the two companies, noting that Orbion propulsion systems are already operating on York spacecraft.
“This next step allows us to more closely align Orbion’s leading-edge technologies with the growing constellation-scale demands across the sector, expand production planning to meet strong market demand, and support customers across the full space ecosystem,” Wallinger added.
York Chief Technology Officer Michael Lajczok said Orbion’s propulsion systems have already shown reliable performance on York spacecraft operating in active missions.
“Integrating this capability allows us to more tightly align propulsion with spacecraft design and mission operations strengthening system-level performance while strengthening performance and long-term reliability as mission demands grow,” Lajczok added.
Brad King, co-founder and CEO of Orbion, said the company was established to develop propulsion systems designed for reliable on-orbit performance and to manufacture them at a scale capable of supporting satellite constellations.
“Our work with York has demonstrated what’s possible when propulsion is designed alongside the spacecraft and mission from the start. Joining York allows us to accelerate that approach and support the growing number of missions already being executed today,” King noted.
What Does York Space Systems Do?
York Space Systems develops spacecraft platforms and mission systems for national security, government and commercial customers.
The company recently demonstrated a space-to-ground optical laser communications link with the Space Development Agency using a York-built Tranche 0 satellite and an optical ground terminal. York also expanded its ground segment capabilities through its acquisition of ATLAS Space Operations, whose Freedom software platform provides access to a global network of antennas for satellite communications. The company later went public through an upsized initial public offering.
