Under the new contract, Kongsberg will supply critical systems for a total of 27 Ariane 6 missions through to 2028. This includes 317 OSBs and 90 UPPA mechanisms, components essential to safe launch operations.
The OSBs form part of the launcher’s flight safety system, while the UPPA units secure the upper stage boosters ahead of lift-off. Development of Ariane 6 components began in 2016, and since 2021 Kongsberg has delivered 15 flight sets, with production now continuing under the extended 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. “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.”
Kongsberg’s contribution to Europe’s space access dates back to 1990 with the development of booster mechanisms for Ariane 5. Over more than 100 successful Ariane 5 launches, its Booster Attachment and Release Mechanisms ensured secure fastening and precise separation of solid rocket boosters.
With Ariane 6, designed to be modular, flexible and versatile for institutional and commercial customers, Kongsberg continues its role in Europe’s flagship launcher programme. Its UPPA mechanisms are based on the proven Ariane 5 DAAV design but adapted for Ariane 6 requirements.
The OSBs are part of Kongsberg’s optical pyrotechnic system, Optopyro, which initiates pyrotechnic functions using laser pulses rather than traditional electro-pyro systems with primary explosives. Optopyro enhances safety, reduces costs, simplifies integration and eliminates lead-based components, meeting modern environmental standards.
Kongsberg has been developing optical pyrotechnic technology since 2001 in collaboration with ESA, CNES and the Norwegian Space Center. This expertise underpins its role as a key contributor to Ariane 6, which has already completed its first three launches and is now in the ramp-up phase to provide Europe with autonomous and flexible access to space.
