Arianespace aims to reach its peak launch rate of 10 Ariane 6 launches per year “as soon as possible.” However, CEO David Cavaillolès declined to provide a specific timeline, citing the need for step-by-step progress. The company currently has contracts for over 40 launches, with Amazon being the largest customer. With looming regulatory deadlines, Arianespace is under pressure to increase its launch rate.
Cavaillolès emphasized the importance of developing space infrastructure independently, particularly from a single provider like SpaceX. He noted that commercial operators are “absolutely unacceptable” to rely on just one actor for their needs. The first Ariane 64 launch, expected in late 2024 or early 2026, is critical for both Amazon’s Project Kuiper and the European broadband secure connectivity constellation IRIS².
Arianespace expects to perform 13 Ariane 64 launches between 2029 and 2030 for IRIS². The company has a contract with Amazon for 18 Ariane 64 launches of its Project Kuiper satellites, which is driving the need for increased launch rates. Despite the challenges ahead, Cavaillès is confident in his team’s ability to deliver, stating that all teams are working “maximum” to make the first Ariane 64 launch a success.
Source: https://spacenews.com/increase-in-ariane-6-launch-cadence-could-take-several-years