A historic milestone for Spain. The country has now joined the group of leading nations within the European Space Agency (ESA)—alongside Germany, France, and Italy—after committing to new investments valued at €1.854 billion for the 2026–2030 period. For the first time in its history, Spain becomes ESA’s fourth-largest contributor, ahead of countries such as the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Switzerland.
The €1.854 billion in new commitments acquired by Spain—managed by the Spanish Space Agency (AEE) through the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities—represents 8.46% of ESA’s total investment for 2026–2030. It also marks a budget increase of more than 50% compared to the 2022 Ministerial Council, raising Spain’s average annual contribution from €300 million to €455 million.
The Minister of Science, Innovation, and Universities, Diana Morant, stated:
“Spain now stands as ESA’s fourth-largest power, with a key role in European space exploration, applications, and sustainability. This is a historic leap that positions us at the forefront with greater leadership and ambition. It is the largest investment in space science and innovation in our history—an investment in our industry and talent, so that the future is created from Spain and for Europe.”
Since 2018, Spain’s annual contribution to ESA has steadily increased from €202 million to the €300 million allocated for 2025.
Spain’s proposed contribution reflects the collaboration between the AEE, ESA, and other Member States to define ambitious and innovative space missions and technologies that will pave the way for Europe’s future as a strong and sovereign space power.
One of Spain’s strongest commitments is to the launcher sector. As Minister Morant announced yesterday, an investment of €169 million is planned to ensure that the MIURA 5 launcher, currently under development by PLD Space, becomes part of the next generation of European launch vehicles through ESA’s European Launcher Challenge (ELC).
Source: Avion Revue
