Avio Celebrates its Independence Day
On 10 July, representatives from Italy, Germany, and France met at the European Space Agency headquarters to sign the Launcher Exploitation Declaration, which officially began the transfer of Vega C launch operation responsibilities from Arianespace to the rocket’s builder, Avio. While Italy had reason to celebrate, the week also delivered unwelcome news that may yet shape the country’s future participation in European launcher programmes.
On 7 July, ESA announced the five companies shortlisted for its European Launcher Challenge initiative. While Avio, having already received substantial institutional support for its small launch vehicle, was not widely expected to submit a proposal, reports following the announcement suggest otherwise.
According to the Italian-language aerospace publication AGEEI, which cited reliable sources familiar with the matter, Avio was one of seven unsuccessful applicants to the initiative. Although Avio did not issue any public comment, the exclusion of Italy…
