FOSSA Systems – Strategic-Technological Analysis
FOSSA Systems is a young Spanish aerospace deep-tech firm specializing in satellite-based IoT connectivity. Founded in Madrid in 2020, with an R&D outpost in Lisbon, it builds small Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellites to link remote sensors and devices via low-power networks[1][2]. The company’s objective is to deploy a constellation of about 80 nanosatellites (each ~6 kg, 54 cm wingspan) to blanket much of the globe with “satellite roaming” IoT coverage[3][4]. Fossa emphasizes vertically integrating its satellite design, production and operation – a unique European capability – to ensure secure, end-to-end communications[5][6]. Its IoT service is offered as SaaS (pay-per-message) for industries (energy, agriculture, logistics, infrastructure, etc.) and government sectors (including a “national security” vertical)[7][8]. Recent milestones include 20 satellites launched to date and a €6.3M Series-A round (2024) led by Japanese and European VC investors[9][10]. This analysis will examine Fossa’s legal status, business focus, technology portfolio and readiness, program engagements, dual-use potential, partnerships, market alignment, IP assets, leadership, capability gaps, and its contribution to European defence autonomy.