With the already booked Galileo first-generation satellites missions on board Ariane 6, this new contract represents the fourth mission for Ariane 6 benefiting the Galileo constellation.
At the 17th European Space Conference, Arianespace announced the signing of a launch contract with the European Commission and the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) to deploy the first pair of second-generation Galileo navigation satellites (L17). The satellites will be launched aboard an Ariane 6 rocket, marking a significant milestone in Europes space autonomy efforts.
Each satellite, weighing between 2,200 kg and 2,400 kg and equipped with electric propulsion, will take several months to reach the Galileo constellations operational orbit at an altitude of 23,222 km. This contract formalises an agreement first entrusted to Arianespace in April 2024.
Prior to this mission, three other launches (L14, L15, and L16) are already scheduled aboard Ariane 6, each carrying two satellites to complete the first-generation Galileo navigation system.
Speaking about the contract, David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace, said: “This signature with the European Commission and EUSPA reaffirms Arianespaces commitment to guaranteeing sovereign access to space for Europe. We are extremely proud to contribute to the flagship Galileo global navigation satellite system, providing high-precision positionings and services to European governments, institutions, and citizens.”
David Cavaillolès added: “This is the fourth launch booked on Ariane 6 for Galileo and the first for the second-generation Galileo satellites. I thank our partners for their continued trust in Arianespace: a long-standing commitment we have together towards the Galileo programme, reinforcing both Ariane 6 and Europes space autonomy.”
Rodrigo da Costa, EUSPA Executive Director, commented: “This launch contract is a key milestone for Galileos second generation, enhancing precision and reliability for users worldwide. EUSPA is proud to support the European Unions space autonomy and deliver innovative services to citizens globally.”
Currently, the first twelve second-generation Galileo satellites are in full production, led by the European Space Agency (ESA) and developed by Thales Alenia Space and Airbus Defence and Space. As the first joint infrastructure fully financed and owned by the European Union, the Galileo program is managed by the European Commission, with ESA overseeing its technical development and launch coordination. Meanwhile, EUSPA handles operational management, ensuring service continuity and system enhancements.
Galileo is a flagship European programme that leverages innovative space technology to provide high-precision global navigation, reinforcing Europes leadership in satellite-based positioning services.
