LUXEMBOURG: European nations announced yesterday they would build a new-generation rocket to maintain their grip on the world market for satellite launches.
Four billion euros have been earmarked for Ariane 6, of which €400m will come from industry, officials said. A review of progress will be made in 2016.
Over 10 years, the 20-nation alliance will spend about €8bn on its launcher programme.
A replacement for the Ariane 5 had been a source of friction for the last two years, with France and Germany pushing alternative approaches. Germany said a new rocket would take too long to develop and argued for a modified version of Ariane 5. France had lobbied for switching directly to Ariane 6.
In a compromise, Ariane 6 will incorporate existing designs from the Ariane 5 and other projects.
AFP
