Kongsberg Signs Contract with ArianeGroup for Ariane 6 Critical Components

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has signed a contract with ArianeGroup for the delivery of critical components to support Europe’s next-generation launch vehicle, Ariane 6.

The three-year agreement covers the supply of Optical Safety Barriers (OSB) and Upper Part Attachment (UPPA) mechanisms, extending the long-standing collaboration between the two companies.

Supporting Europe’s Independent Space Access

ArianeGroup, a French-German leader in space technology, plays a central role in securing Europe’s autonomous access to space. The Ariane 6 launcher completed its inaugural flight in July 2024 and has since performed two successful commercial missions in March and August 2025. The programme is now in its ramp-up phase.

The modular and flexible design of Ariane 6 allows it to meet a wide range of institutional and commercial mission needs. Its versatility and scalable payload capacity enable efficient deployment of satellites and other space assets, from earth observation to secure communications.

Proven Partnership and Production

KONGSBERG began developing Ariane 6 components in 2016, with deliveries of OSB and UPPA units starting in 2021. To date, 15 flight sets have been delivered, with production continuing under this new agreement.

“This agreement is a testament to the engineering excellence and teamwork that define KONGSBERG,” said Per-Erik Kristoffersen, Vice President Space & Surveillance at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

He added:

“Ariane 6 is critical for Europe’s independent access to space at a time when the number of satellites and space assets is growing rapidly, enabling deployment of vital services such as secure communications, earth observation, and weather forecasting.”

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