SSC Space was pleased to welcome Andrius Kubilius, European Commissioner for Defence and Space, to Esrange Space Center as part of his European Launch Tour.
The European Launch Tour focuses on a critical European priority: reliable, competitive and resilient access to space.
During the visit, accompanied by Minister for Defence Pål Jonsson, we showcased the breadth of capabilities at Esrange, including suborbital activities, our ground network, rocket testing, with a particular focus on our next major step: orbital launch from mainland Europe with a first launch scheduled for 2028.
Our satellite launch service is intended for small satellites, with capabilities for sun-synchronous and polar orbits. Building on decades of suborbital operations and supported by our global ground station network, the ambition is to provide a comprehensive European launch service from northern Sweden.
The visit offered an important opportunity to discuss how SSC Space, our Esrange Space Center, and partners can contribute to a stronger and more resilient European space ecosystem.
With its strategic location and established infrastructure, Esrange has an important role to play as Europe strengthens its ability to access space from European soil.
“Adding an orbital launch capability to mainland Europe strengthens the continent’s capabilities and competitiveness in the commercial space arena, while contributing to greater resilience and strategic autonomy within the defense domain”, said Charlotta Sund, President and CEO at SSC Space.