In a bold move to shake up the satellite market, European aerospace giants Airbus, Leonardo and Thales are edging closer to sealing a deal under the banner of Project Bromo. Named after the Indonesian volcano, this initiative aims to create a unified satellite production and launch firm capable of competing with Elon Musk's SpaceX in the affordable low-Earth orbit arena.
Originally targeting a July agreement, discussions led by Roberto Cingolani of Leonardo and Airbus Defence and Space CEO Michael Schoellhorn have faced delays due to national and transnational complexities. Despite the pushback, Schoellhorn remains optimistic that a final accord will be signed by year-end.
Project Bromo is more than a merger of assets: it represents a strategic pivot towards smaller, cost-effective satellites to serve both military and civilian clients. Reuters reports that Leonardo and Thales may fold their existing joint ventures – Thales Alenia Space and Telespazio – into the new entity, boosting its production capabilities and launch services.
Insiders suggest Toulouse, France – home to Airbus headquarters – could host the venture’s base, though final decisions are still in negotiation. If successful, Project Bromo would mark a significant step for Europe’s space ambitions, offering a homegrown alternative to current market leaders.
As Project Bromo moves forward, it promises to foster innovation, drive down costs and strengthen Europe's footprint in the fast-evolving space economy. The world will be watching as these aerospace powerhouses chart a new course beyond Earth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
