Artist’s rendition of Ariane 6. Photo: Airbus Safran Launchers

[Via Satellite 07-01-2016] Airbus Group and Safran have completed the formation of Airbus Safran Launchers — the 50/50 Joint Venture (JV) that combines Airbus Defence and Space’s launcher experience with Safran’s capability in liquid and solid rocket propulsion. Safran has agreed to make an economic equalization of approximately $836 million (€750 million) in order to obtain a 50 percent stake in the company.

Airbus Safran Launchers is now a fully-fledged operational company with roughly 8,400 employees in France and Germany. The JV, already managing launcher program activities and associated equity stakes, is the head company in a group comprising 11 subsidiaries and affiliates: APP, Arianespace, Cilas, Eurockot, Eurocryospace, Europropulsion, Nucletudes, Pyroalliance, Regulus, Sodern and Starsem.

“With the closing of this agreement, Airbus Safran Launchers becomes fully operational and will focus all its efforts on delivering more competitive solutions to its customers. Top of the list is the next generation Ariane 6 launcher, which is due to have its maiden flight as early as 2020,” said Tom Enders, CEO of Airbus Group.