Avio Plans Three Vega-C Launches from French Guiana Amid U.S. Defense Contracts
DEFENSE
Avio plans three Vega-C launches from French Guiana this year, down from four due to a delay with the Italian satellite Platino. The first launch is scheduled for April, carrying the ESA's Smile satellite with Chinese participation.
Avio faces challenges in Europe due to a lack of satellite constellation manufacturers, impacting launch frequency and costs. Concurrently, Avio is expanding its defense activities in the U.S. with a $35 million contract with MBDA and a new rocket engine factory in Virginia, supported by U.S. government funds.

Feb 23, 2026, 3:56 PM