Avio is leader in space propulsion, with more than 1,000 employees located in Italy, France and French Guyana. Since its foundation, in 1912, the company has played a key role in designing, manufacturing and integrating space launch systems and tactical missiles.
Avio is the prime contractor for the production of the small lift launch vehicles Vega and Vega C, two European Space Agency (ESA) programs, and the subcontractor for the manufacturing of the solid rocket motors P80, P120C, Zefiro 23, Zefiro 40 and Zefiro 9 and for Avum and Avum +, upper stages. About 65% of the rockets is developed and manufactured in Italy.
Avio is also prime contractor a new generation launcher: Vega Evolution (Vega E) whose maiden flight is expected to be in 2026.
News and events from Avio's world
29.11.22
Space Launches
The European Commission signs a record contract for 5 Vega C launches for the Copernicus constellation
Rome, 29 November 2022 – Avio announces the signature of a contract by Arianespace with the European Commission for five Vega C launches for the Copernicus earth observation constellation satellites, to be executed between 2024 to 2026.
29.11.22
Space events
Record budget for Italy at ESA Ministerial Council more than €700M of new contracts expected starting from 2023
Rome, 28 November 2022 – The Ministerial Council of ESA Member States took place in Paris on Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23 November, allocating budgets for space research and development programs for the three-year period 2023-2025.
28.11.22
Space Launches
Flight VV22 postponement
Due to a defective equipment that needs to be replaced on the launcher, Flight VV22 –initially scheduled for November 24, from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana– is being postponed.
The Vega C launch vehicle and the two Pléiades Neo satellites are in safe conditions.