Two new Launchers Exploitation Arrangements have been signed at the European Space Agency (ESA) Headquarters in Paris, marking an important step forward for the continued operation of Europe’s Ariane 6 and Vega-C launch systems. The agreements formalise the relationship between ESA and the launch operators responsible for Europe’s autonomous access to space from the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana.
The arrangements were signed by ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher, together with Giulio Ranzo, CEO of Avio; David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace; and Martin Sion, CEO of ArianeGroup. They follow decisions taken by the ESA Council in 2023 to revise the Launchers Exploitation Declaration, a process completed in July 2025, and the signing of the updated Guiana Space Centre Agreement in October 2025. The new arrangements translate these high-level decisions into concrete operational frameworks that define responsibilities for the exploitation of both launcher families.
Under the agreements, Arianespace and ArianeGroup assume full responsibility for the operation and commercialisation of Ariane 6, while Avio takes on the same for Vega-C, after years serving as the system’s Technical Authority and Industrial Prime Contractor. ESA will monitor implementation to ensure that launch operations remain aligned with strategic objectives and to support Europe’s long-term launch capacity.
Josef Aschbacher said the agreements reflect a maturing European launch market with multiple capable operators. He noted that Europe’s launch services will continue to expand in the coming years, with more actors entering the market and increasing the breadth of available launch options.
Giulio Ranzo said Avio welcomed its expanded role with Vega-C, emphasising the company’s long experience with the system and acknowledging ESA’s technical support and Arianespace’s role in establishing Vega as a reliable launcher in the commercial market.
David Cavaillolès said the new arrangement reinforces Arianespace’s responsibility in maintaining Europe’s independent access to space. He highlighted Ariane 6’s early commercial success, with three missions completed, and said the company is increasing launch cadence to serve a growing customer base.
ArianeGroup chief executive Martin Sion said Ariane 6 has demonstrated strong performance, with four successful launches within 16 months. He described the arrangement as an important milestone that will support continued production ramp-up and ensure responsiveness to both institutional and private sector launch needs.
Together, the new exploitation arrangements strengthen Europe’s ability to operate and commercialise its own launch vehicles, underpinning autonomous access to space at a time of increasing global competition and rising demand for launch services.
