Title: OCR Document
Author: Readiris
Last saved by: PC 10
Company: I.R.I.S.

SUBMISSION BY MARCOM

29 May 2008

SUBJECT: Comments, South African National Space Agency Bill [B20-2008]

As introduced in the National Assembly (proposed section 75), The South African National Space Agency Bill published in Government Gazette No. 30220 of 31 August 2007, MARCOM Aeronuatics & Space (Pty) Limited ("MARCOM'') hereby extends its enthusiasm and full support of the proposed bill and appreciates the opportunity to provide public comment thereon.

MARCOM is a high technology South African aerospace design and development company founded in 2002 with the specific purpose of designing, developing, testing and bringing to market a two stage expendable launch vehicle capable of transporting South African and international commercial satellites to Low-Earth Orbit from South African shores.

MARCOM has no doubt such an endeavour is within the Republic's capabilities and six years from inception, is now in the process of building and testing liquid rocket engine technologies to demonstrate its capabilities in support of its endeavours.

In this regard, MARCOM believes the establishment of a National Space Agency will be an extremely positive and enabling initiative which will provide the following scientific economic, social and national benefits to the Republic:

1) The development and sale of local space technologies and products which derive foreign direct investment and revenues from international clients,

2) The strengthening of existing space research and scientific relationships between the Republic and developed agencies such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Russian Space Agency,

3) Provide a platform for further agreements and scientific partnerships between the Republic and other international space agencies (e.g. the Indian, Japanese, Canadian and Chinese space agencies as well as other African space agencies such as the Kenyan, Nigerian, Moroccan and Algerian space agencies),

4) Provide political support to the development and use of space for peaceful purposes by the Republic which in turn allays the fears of foreign investors in local commercial space endeavours,

5) Strengthening of the fundamental objective of NEPAD, namely, the reduction of Africa's dependence on foreign technologies,

6) Positively enhance the global perception of the Republic's scientific and engineering capabilities,

7) Enhance manufacturing opportunities and industrial reputation as a producer of quality high technology products,

8) Develop and retain local scientific and engineering expertise and provide for industry wide job creation,

9) and possibly most importantly inspire and encourage the youth of South Africa to dream, excel in mathematics and science and "reach for the stars".

In light of the above mentioned benefits and in association and support of a South African National Space Agency, MARCOM is confident its endeavours to provide space transportation capabilities for the Republic can be accomplished for a fraction of similar aerospace ventures currently being undertaken overseas. After six years of detailed research, design and analysis, MARCOM's current total project estimate is approximately R100 million over a three year time frame.

Furthermore, MARCOM is of the opinion such a venture can be undertaken solely on a commercial basis with little or no government funding. However, during our solicitation of commercial finance, one item is key to attracting commercial investment in the project, namely, the political position of Government relating to the development of space transportation and satellite systems.

In this regard, MARCOM is of the opinion the formation of a South African National Space Agency would squarely demonstrate to local and foreign investors the Republic's commitment to developing space science and technology, allay investor fears, and enable the funding and development of commercial aerospace technologies in the Republic which would ultimately benefit the citizens of the Republic, government and the South African National Space Agency itself.

MARCOM is commited to the development of space science in South Africa and trusts the comment provided above clearly highlights MARCOM's support of the South African National Space Agency Bill.

MARCOM hereby strongly encourages the passing of said bill to facilitate the development of world class aerospace products for local and global clients.

Should the portfolio committee require MARCOM to expand on these matters, MARCOM would be pleased to avail itself at hearings to discuss these matters and/or MARCOM's vision and capabilities further.

Your consideration of the above and matters related thereto are greatly appreciated.

Yours sincerely,

Mark Comninos Managing Director