The Vinci engine for the Ariane 6 rocket is being assembled at the DLR test centre in Germany

The Ariane 6 programme continues to bring good news. A new agreement between the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and ArianeGroup, supported by the European Space Agency (ESA), confirms that the Vinci engine — a vital part of the European launcher’s upper stage — will be assembled at the DLR facility in Lampoldshausen, Germany. Signed on 24 October, the agreement marks a decisive step forward in European industrial cooperation on Ariane 6.

During the event, plans were also announced for the construction of a new production building, which will enhance the centre’s capabilities for this task. As part of a joint decision by Germany, France, Italy and the ESA to redistribute responsibilities, the oxygen turbopump will be developed in Vernon, France, while the integration and testing of the Vinci assembly will move to Lampoldshausen. The final installation of the engine in the upper stage of Ariane 6 will continue to take place in Bremen.

The Vinci engine, which is powered by liquid hydrogen and oxygen, is fully restartable. Its ability to ignite multiple times enables it to place satellites into different orbits and then deorbit the upper stage, thereby improving the efficiency and sustainability of European missions.

ESA Director of Space Transportation, Toni Tolker-Nielsen, highlighted the significance of this new step: “During its initial development, the Vinci engine was tested in Vernon, and now its story continues here in Germany. It is a perfect example of European cooperation. Integration and testing in Lampoldshausen will reinforce German leadership in upper stages and open up new possibilities, such as the future ASTRIS orbital transfer vehicle.”

The DLR test centre in Lampoldshausen is one of the most advanced in Europe. There, engines, components and even complete stages are tested under conditions that simulate actual flight, with all fuel, pressure and temperature parameters controlled. This facility has already tested both the Vinci engine and the complete 5.4-metre-diameter upper stage of the Ariane 6, validating it for its maiden flight.

This new development further strengthens Europe’s independence in accessing space. The Ariane 6 is a symbol of European technological capability and continues to give us reasons for optimism and pride.

Photograph:ESA vía