PLD Space begins system-level testing for Miura 5 orbital launcher

PLD Space has entered a new phase of development for its Miura 5 orbital launcher, beginning system-level testing and subsystem validation. The company has manufactured its first three Miura 5 vehicles, consisting of two qualification units for testing and one primary flight vehicle.

The company is utilizing a vertical integration model that connects manufacturing, testing, and launch operations. This approach allows PLD Space to apply lessons learned from qualification tests directly to flight hardware, increasing reliability and accelerating the development process.

A major milestone in the program is the full integration of the Miura 5 second stage, which combines structures, avionics, propulsion, and control systems. This stage is currently undergoing qualification testing at the company’s facilities in Teruel. The first demonstration flight is expected to take place during the first half of 2027.