Ariane 6 technical issues may delay European space launches

Technical issues involving the turbopumps of the Ariane 6 rocket are expected to impact the European space launch schedule. Reports indicate that anomalies in these critical components, which regulate liquid propellant pressure, may necessitate a reduction in the number of planned launches for 2026 and 2027. The European Space Agency (ESA) has acknowledged the delays, while ArianeGroup and Arianespace noted the need to adjust the calendar due to ongoing production line inspections.

Despite these technical hurdles, the ESA aims for a gradual increase in orbital launch frequency. Geraldine Naja, ESA Director of Space Transportation, stated that the goal is to reach 12 Ariane 6 launches per year by the end of 2029, potentially increasing to 15 thereafter. The agency also targets an increase in Vega-C launches, potentially reaching up to nine flights if objectives are met.

Financial analysts at Intesa Sanpaolo suggest that if these launch targets are achieved, the Italian company Avio could see a significant boost in estimates for the 2030-2035 period, with a potential increase of 117-176 million euros.