GKN Aerospace and ArianeGroup Forge Enhanced Alliance Through New Ariane 6 Agreement

As reported by GKN Aerospace, a notable new Frame contract has been established with ArianeGroup for the operational phase of the Ariane 6 project. This agreement not only secures Europe’s future in space exploration but also highlights a partnership that has thrived for over fifty years. It marks the first major contract between ArianeGroup and an industrial partner as they gear up for the production phase of this innovative European launcher.

This contract ensures that GKN Aerospace will continue to supply essential components throughout the operational lifespan of Ariane 6, following its inaugural flight scheduled for July 2024 and its first commercial launch in March 2025.

ArianeGroup, recognized as a leader in space technology across France and Germany, relies on GKN Aerospace for several critical elements of the ariane 6 launch vehicle. These include:

• Turbines using LH₂ and LOX for the Vulcain 2.1 engine’s first stage
• Nozzle extension designed specifically for Vulcain 2.1
• Turbines utilizing LH₂ and LOX intended for the Vinci engine’s second stage

The development of these components was carried out collaboratively with ArianeGroup under an initiative from the European Space Agency (ESA), with production taking place at GKN Aerospace’s specialized engines facility located in Trollhättan, Sweden.

Ariane 6 represents Europe’s cutting-edge solution to ensure autonomous access to outer space while providing a versatile option suitable for various institutional and commercial missions. The rocket is set to be launched from Kourou’s Guiana Space Center in French Guiana.

Stefan Oscarsson, Senior vice President Engines at GKN Aerospace, expressed pride in their ongoing collaboration within this program: “We are excited about continuing our long-standing relationship with Ariane Group through this contract which solidifies our role in enhancing Europe’s capabilities in space launches.”

Stéphane Nogatchewsky, Chief Procurement Officer at ArianeGroup added: “This successful partnership is crucial as we advance towards realizing our goals with Ariane 6. I appreciate all efforts from both teams involved; this agreement reflects our commitment to making sure that we achieve success during this ramp-up phase.”

GKN Aerospace has consistently been a reliable ally since the inception of the Ariane program. This latest agreement signifies another milestone in their enduring collaboration focused on innovation and ensuring Europe maintains its self-reliant access to outer space.