Safran Electronics & Defense and Terran Orbital have recently announced a partnership to study and validate the prerequisites for producing a new generation of electric propulsion systems for satellites in the United States. The collaboration will be based on Safran’s PPSX00 plasma thruster.
The two companies will conduct a thorough analysis to determine the technical, industrial, and economic requirements for establishing a new production line for electric propulsion systems in the US. The potential location for this production line is Terran Orbital’s facility in Irvine, California, which specializes in manufacturing microsatellites. By establishing a local source of satellite thrusters, this new line will not only contribute to the American space industry but also boost the economy and employment. It will also match Safran’s production facilities in France, effectively doubling the company’s international production capacity.
The development of effective and sustainable propulsion systems for satellites is a crucial challenge worldwide, as international regulations demand greater sustainability and resilience in spacecraft. To avoid collisions and ensure maneuverability, spacecraft require a higher degree of mobility, as well as a system to deorbit low Earth orbit satellites at the end of their service life. Safran’s PPSX00 plasma thrusters, which have a power rating of approximately one kilowatt, will be utilized to meet the growing mobility requirements of low Earth orbit satellites.
Jean-Marie Bétermier, Senior Vice President Space at Safran Electronics & Defense, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that it will contribute to the emergence of an additional source of supply for electric propulsion systems to meet the increasing needs of the space industry.
Marc Bell, Terran Orbital’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, highlighted Safran Electronics & Defense’s confidence in Terran Orbital’s products and personnel. He emphasized that the partnership will lead to the creation of top-of-the-line propulsion systems that enhance spacecraft resilience and maneuverability, while also enabling faster delivery rates and lower costs for national security and commercial customers.
Safran is an international high-technology group that operates in the aviation, defense, and space markets. The company’s core purpose is to contribute to a safer and more sustainable world, with a focus on environmentally friendly, comfortable, and accessible air transport. With a global presence and 83,000 employees, Safran holds leadership positions in its core markets. It is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices.
Safran Electronics & Defense is an international company with 10,000 employees that specializes in technologies supporting sovereignty. By combining human and artificial intelligence, the company develops products and services that empower aerospace and defense players. Additionally, Safran Electronics & Defense shares its state-of-the-art electronics skills and expertise with other Safran companies.
Safran Spacecraft Propulsion, a subsidiary of Safran Electronics & Defense, is the leading European provider of plasma propulsion. The company offers a comprehensive range of electric thrusters and propulsion subsystems for more sustainable satellites and spacecraft.
