FTPA advised the French Space Agency (CNES) on MDA Space’s proposed acquisition of a majority stake in Collecte Localisation Satellites (CLS), a leading provider of AI-powered Earth observation data analytics.
The transaction marks a new chapter in CLS’s development. It will bring together MDA Space’s industrial and satellite capabilities with CLS’s expertise in data analytics, artificial intelligence and geospatial services, while CNES will remain a key shareholder. It also reflects a shared commitment to accelerating CLS’s international growth while safeguarding its strategic interests in France.
Founded by CNES in 1986, CLS is now an international group specialising in space-based solutions designed to help understand and protect the planet. The company operates in nearly 150 countries and employs approximately 1,200 people. Its activities span environmental monitoring, maritime security, mobility and infrastructure.
FTPA advised CNES on all legal aspects of the transaction, drawing on a multidisciplinary team with expertise in corporate law, tax, employment law and foreign investment control.
The FTPA team comprised:
Corporate: François-Xavier Beauvisage, Partner, Julien Garanger and Laura Darvishi;
Tax: Sophie Jouniaux, Partner, and François-Xavier Cochenet;
Employment: Laure Calice, Partner, and Marine Claisse;
Foreign investment control: Malik Idri, Partner.
