Finance
EU space agency signs contract to launch Galileo satellites with Ariane 6
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on January 28, 2026
1 min readLast updated: January 28, 2026
Quick Summary
EUSPA signs with Ariane 6 to launch Galileo satellites, moving from SpaceX to enhance EU's satellite independence.
EUSPA Contracts Ariane 6 for Launching Next-Gen Galileo Satellites
EUSPA's New Contract for Satellite Launch
BRUSSELS, Jan 28 (Reuters) - The European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) has announced the signing of a new contract to launch second-generation Galileo satellites with Europe's Ariane 6 rocket launcher.
Details of the Contract
Under the contract, announced on Tuesday, the Ariane 6 system - which completed its first mission last year - will be used to launch two Galileo L18 satellites.
Shift from SpaceX to Ariane 6
The EU has previously been using Elon Musk's SpaceX to launch strategic satellites such as those in the Galileo constellation, which provide it with autonomous location services independent of the U.S. Global Positioning System.
Impact on European Satellite Industry
The EU has increased its focus on its independence in defence and security matters since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House last year.
Commercial European satellite companies are still using cheaper SpaceX, which also has more capacity.
(Reporting by Julia Payne, Editing by Timothy Heritage)
Key Takeaways
- •EUSPA signed a contract with Ariane 6 for satellite launches.
- •The contract involves launching second-gen Galileo satellites.
- •Shift from SpaceX to Ariane 6 for strategic launches.
- •EU aims for independence in satellite and defense sectors.
- •Commercial companies still prefer SpaceX for cost efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions about EU space agency signs contract to launch Galileo satellites with Ariane 6
1What is the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA)?
EUSPA is an agency of the European Union responsible for managing the EU's space programme, including satellite navigation systems like Galileo.
2What are Galileo satellites?
Galileo satellites are part of the European Union's global navigation satellite system, providing accurate positioning and timing services.
3What is the Ariane 6 rocket?
Ariane 6 is a European heavy-lift launch vehicle designed to replace the Ariane 5, intended for launching satellites into orbit.
4What is the significance of satellite launches for the EU?
Satellite launches are crucial for the EU's autonomy in navigation and positioning services, reducing reliance on foreign systems like GPS.
5What is the impact of using Ariane 6 over SpaceX for satellite launches?
Using Ariane 6 enhances the EU's strategic independence in space operations and supports the growth of its aerospace industry.
