Firefly Aerospace to start operations in Europe
Firefly Aerospace is to become the first American company to launch satellites from continental Europe thanks to a new agreement with the Swedish Space Corporation (SSC).
June 28, 2024
Firefly Aerospace is to become the first American company to launch satellites from continental Europe thanks to a new agreement with the Swedish Space Corporation (SSC).
Starting in 2026, space transportation company Firefly will be providing lift off on its Alpha rocket for the SSC at its Esrange Space Centre in Sweden.
The two companies are hoping that by working together, they can establish an orbital launch service in Europe with a flight-proven launch vehicle, supporting commercial, civil and defence customers.
SSC CEO Charlotta Sund said: “We’re pleased to announce this historic collaboration that will have a huge impact on the global launch market, not least in Europe and the US.
“Reducing the current gap of orbital launch sites in Europe, this collaboration strengthens the transatlantic link between Sweden and the US whilst offering unique space capabilities for the Swedish NATO membership.
“We’re looking forward to releasing this competitive and well-proven launch service at Esrange in northern Europe.”
Owned and operated by SSC, Esrange has been operational since 1966, primarily supporting sounding rocket launches for microgravity and atmospheric research.
Newly expanded infrastructure at Esrange now supports satellite launches, making it a significant contribution to filling the demands for orbital launch capabilities in Europe.
As part of the agreement with SSC, Firefly’s Alpha rocket will launch from Esrange Launch Complex 3C where pad modifications are already underway.
With the inaugural Alpha launch scheduled for 2026, the new complex will support commercial customers in the broader European market and enable tactically responsive space missions to further advance national security for NATO countries.
Firefly Aerospace CEO Bill Weber said: “The future of spaceflight requires more orbital launch sites across the globe as we continue to see growing demand among domestic and international launch customers.
“Firefly is incredibly humbled to partner with SSC and become the first US company to launch from continental Europe.
“Together, we’re unlocking a long-awaited capability for the European satellite market, and we invite those waiting to fly with us on our flight-proven Alpha vehicle.”
