Avio

Avio is the industrial prime contractor for the Vega launcher. The Italian company carries out all design and development activities for the launcher. Avio is also in charge of these operations for Vega-C.

Avio is specialised in the space propulsion sector. In addition to the solid and liquid propulsion systems it manufactures for Ariane 5 and Vega, it also produces liquid propellants for satellites and solid propellants for missiles.

Coordinate Vega and Vega-C activities

In French Guiana, Avio is responsible for all activities related to the Vega launcher. It is responsible for launcher assembly operations and the maintenance of its facilities in the Vega launch complex. Avio will also be responsible for the assembly of Vega-C, the upgraded version of the Vega launcher. It is also in charge of carrying out the various adaptations of the Vega launch complex to accommodate Vega-C.

Manufacture the Ariane 5 and Vega engines

At the GSC, Avio is responsible for manufacturing the propulsion systems for Ariane 5 and Vega launchers, the components that deliver the launcher’s thrust at lift-off. Avio carries out these tasks through two subsidiaries specialising in production:

• Europropulsion, which manufactures the boosters for Ariane 5 and Vega
• Regulus, which produces propellant, a combustion product for Ariane 5 and Vega engines.