ROCKET PARTS FROM LIEGE
[BIZ: Liège, March 9] Following the order placed by Arianespace at Astrium for 35 new Ariane 5 ECA launchers, Snecma (Safran Group), the cryogenic propulsion prime contractor for Europe's launcher, has entrusted Techspace Aero with the production of propulsion equipment for the engine and the main stage of the launcher. The signing was witnessed by Sabine Laruelle, Minister for Scientific Policy, Jacques Serre, Managing Director of Snecma's Space Engine Division and around 60 members from the Space Department of the company. Techspace Aero has been involved in development and production for the European space programs since 1974 and has so far delivered over 11,000 units of flying equipment demonstrating 100% operational reliability. Belgium's ongoing support for the European Space Agency's programs is a determining factor in skills expansion at Techspace Aero and in all these industrial developments. By further consolidating their support at the ESA ministerial conference in The Hague in November 2008, Belgium has recovered its position as the 5th largest contributor. Partner to the major engine manufacturers, Techspace Aero designs, develops and produces modules, equipment and test cells for aerospace engines. With its high-tech products, Techspace Aero makes an ongoing contribution to the success of numerous Airbus (A320, A330, A340, A380, A400M), Boeing (B737, B747, B767, B777, B787) and Embraer (190) aircraft among others. Techspace Aero is a SAFRAN Group company (F- 56% of capital). Other shareholders are the Walloon Region (B- 31 %), Pratt & Whitney (USA- 11%) and the Federal Investment Company (B- 2%). The company achieved turnover of EUR 337m in 2008 with a 1,250 strong workforce.
Techspace Aero (Safran Group) has signed a contract, to be completed over the next 5 years, for some 300 units of flight equipment for the European Ariane 5 spacecraft.
http://www.techspace-aero.be/