► Reusable Orbital Spaceplane Program VORTEX

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(Saint-Cloud, France, September 10, 2026) – Dassault Aviation welcomes France’s decision to support the VORTEX spaceplane project. This decision, announced today by French President Emmanuel Macron during the International Space Summit held in Paris, will strengthen Europe’s space capabilities and expertise.

Designed by Dassault Aviation, the global architect and integrator of the aircraft, VORTEX is a reusable spaceplane tailored for both civil and military orbital missions. Its development will be carried out in partnership with the German company OHB (see DA-OHB press release dated May 11, 2026). Several major European aerospace and space industry players have already joined this project: APCO Technologies, MT Aerospace, Sener, Sonaca, Space Cargo Unlimited, and others.

“This project, supported by France, should lead several countries – Germany and others – to join this ambition for mastering mobility in space,” said Éric Trappier, Chairman & CEO of Dassault Aviation.

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Classification
Region
Europe
Analytical Domain
Strategic
Primary Category / Secondary Categories
Political-Military / Weapons & Equipment
SALUTE Report
Size
Not applicable
Activity
France supports the VORTEX spaceplane project, enhancing European space capabilities for civil and military missions.
Location
Saint-Cloud · France
Unit
Dassault Aviation
Time
September 10, 2026
Equipment
VORTEX spaceplane
Summary

France announced its support for the VORTEX spaceplane project on September 10, 2026, during the International Space Summit in Paris. This initiative, led by Dassault Aviation, aims to strengthen Europe's space capabilities for both civil and military missions. The project involves collaboration with German company OHB and several other European aerospace firms.

Key Facts
  • France supports the VORTEX spaceplane project.
  • The project aims to enhance European space capabilities.
  • Dassault Aviation is the main contractor for the VORTEX spaceplane.
  • The project involves collaboration with German company OHB.
  • Several major European aerospace companies are participating.