The European Space Agency (ESA) is considering increasing the launch frequency of its Ariane 6 and Vega-C rockets due to anticipated high demand for satellite deployments, particularly peaking around 2030. ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher indicated that decisions need to be made soon to expand capacity, with current expectations of 9-10 Ariane 6 launches annually by 2027.
Aschbacher highlighted the gap between demand—which includes contracts from Amazon and other commercial interests—and planned launch capacity. Amazon has already committed to 18 launches. He mentioned that while assessments are ongoing to determine if ESA can meet these demands, quick action is necessary to build the required resources.
Additionally, ESA is exploring the potential for human spaceflight capabilities, which could increase its budget by about 10% depending on funding sources, an issue likely to be discussed at an upcoming summit in France.
On another note, Aschbacher addressed concerns regarding a proposed merger of satellite manufacturing activities between Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo, which is currently under review for antitrust issues. ESA holds significant influence in the sector, accounting for about 60% of public-sector spending on satellites in Europe, and Aschbacher stressed the agency’s commitment to maintaining a competitive landscape in the European space industry.
