ArianeGroup and Avio Strengthen European Space Access with New Agreement

On November 14, 2023, ArianeGroup and Avio finalized a significant multi-year industrial agreement aimed at enhancing Europe's independent access to space. This contract, which extends through 2029, focuses on the production of critical components for the Ariane 6 and Vega C launch vehicles. Central to this agreement is Europropulsion, a joint venture owned equally by both companies, which will supply P160C solid rocket motors for the stabilized exploitation phase of these launchers.

Avio and Ariane Group: Ariane 6 stabilized production phaseArianeGroup and Avio sign new agreement to produce Ariane 6 and Vega C components through 2029ArianeGroup and Avio renew their industrial partnership to secure Europe's independent access to spaceEuropropulsion Wins In New Deal To Secure Ariane 6 and Vega-C Production Through 2029

The P160C motor, developed collaboratively by ArianeGroup and Avio, represents a substantial upgrade in performance compared to existing boosters. It is designed to serve as a common solid rocket motor for both the Ariane 6 and the first stage of the Vega C. The motor is expected to complete ground qualification in 2025, with its inaugural flight scheduled for the second quarter of 2026, utilizing a configuration of four boosters.

Avio and Ariane Group: Ariane 6 stabilized production phaseArianeGroup and Avio renew their industrial partnership to secure Europe's independent access to spaceArianeGroup and Avio sign new agreement to produce Ariane 6 and Vega C components through 2029Europropulsion Wins In New Deal To Secure Ariane 6 and Vega-C Production Through 2029

In addition to the P160C motors, the agreement includes provisions for the mutual supply of components and equipment between ArianeGroup and Avio. Avio will provide additional liquid oxygen turbopumps for the Vulcain engine, which powers the first stage of Ariane 6, while ArianeGroup will supply various components for the Vega C launcher. This collaboration builds on a longstanding partnership and aims to improve technology, performance, and cost competitiveness for both companies.

ArianeGroup and Avio sign new agreement to produce Ariane 6 and Vega C components through 2029ArianeGroup and Avio renew their industrial partnership to secure Europe's independent access to spaceAvio and Ariane Group: Ariane 6 stabilized production phaseEuropropulsion Wins In New Deal To Secure Ariane 6 and Vega-C Production Through 2029

Martin Sion, CEO of ArianeGroup, emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating, “The ramp-up of Ariane 6 is in full swing. The arrival of the P160C motor opens a new chapter for Ariane 6 and Vega C.” He acknowledged the efforts of both teams in securing this milestone for European space access.

ArianeGroup and Avio renew their industrial partnership to secure Europe's independent access to spaceArianeGroup and Avio sign new agreement to produce Ariane 6 and Vega C components through 2029Europropulsion Wins In New Deal To Secure Ariane 6 and Vega-C Production Through 2029Avio and Ariane Group: Ariane 6 stabilized production phase

Giulio Ranzo, CEO of Avio, expressed satisfaction with the agreement, noting that it seeks to capture synergies between Ariane 6 and Vega C. He stated, “Avio and Ariane Group are very satisfied to have signed a broad industrial agreement, seeking to capture synergies... to improve technology and performance as well as to increase cost competitiveness.”

ArianeGroup and Avio renew their industrial partnership to secure Europe's independent access to spaceArianeGroup and Avio sign new agreement to produce Ariane 6 and Vega C components through 2029Europropulsion Wins In New Deal To Secure Ariane 6 and Vega-C Production Through 2029

This agreement is seen as a crucial step in stabilizing Europe’s launcher sector, which has faced challenges in recent years. The coordinated efforts of ArianeGroup, Avio, and the European Space Agency aim to enhance the launch cadence from the Guiana Space Centre, paving the way for increased flight opportunities for both Ariane 6 and Vega C.

Europropulsion Wins In New Deal To Secure Ariane 6 and Vega-C Production Through 2029ArianeGroup and Avio renew their industrial partnership to secure Europe's independent access to spaceArianeGroup and Avio sign new agreement to produce Ariane 6 and Vega C components through 2029Avio and Ariane Group: Ariane 6 stabilized production phase

• “The ramp-up of Ariane 6 is in full swing. The arrival of the P160C motor opens a new chapter for Ariane 6 and Vega C. I would like to thank the teams at ArianeGroup and Avio. The agreement demonstrates once again that cooperation is key to ensure a competitive and autonomous European access to space.” — Martin Sion, CEO of ArianeGroup

ArianeGroup and Avio sign new agreement to produce Ariane 6 and Vega C components through 2029

This new contract not only secures production for the next several years but also reinforces the collaborative spirit essential for maintaining Europe's competitive edge in the global space industry.

Europropulsion Wins In New Deal To Secure Ariane 6 and Vega-C Production Through 2029