Arianespace, EADS, Ink Deal For 30 Launches

As German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder and French Minister of Research Francois d'Aubert looked on, Arianespace and EADS signed a contract at the Berlin Air Show Monday for the production of 30 Ariane-5 launchers.

This contract, called "PA batch", will allow Arianespace to ensure its launch service continuity, to enhance its performance and competitiveness on the international launcher market. The first Ariane 5 of the PA batch will be launched in 2005. This batch will mainly consist of a configuration of standardized launchers Ariane 5 ECA. Besides this version of Ariane 5, the PA batch will also include Ariane 5 ES for the launches of the ATV (Automated Transfer Vehicle).

The contract signature of the PA batch is the implementation of the new role of EADS SPACE Transportation as single prime contractor of the Ariane 5 system. Its commitment is to deliver an integrated launcher to Arianespace in French Guiana. This means that the company manages from now the whole range of relations and contracts with the subcontractors covering launch vehicle production. As a result, EADS SPACE Transportation oversees the European cost reduction initiative and enhances production capabilities.

Arianespace is in charge of the commercial launch service operation. As "prime customer," the company will source the launcher from the prime contractor, adapt it to the customer mission requirements, integrates the satellites and farings, and carries out launch operations at Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.

The contract signing came on the heels of EADS successful drop-test of its space shuttle prototype, the Phoenix.

FMI: www.arianespace.com, www.eads.com