Terran Orbital (NYSE:LLAP) and Safran Electronics & Defense have entered into a Memorandum of Agreement to explore the feasibility of producing a new generation of electric propulsion systems for satellites in the United States, utilizing Safran's PPSX00 plasma thruster.
The collaboration aims to study the technical, industrial, and economic requirements for establishing a US-based production line at Terran Orbital's facility in Irvine, California, known for its microsatellite production.
The proposed production line would not only provide the American space industry with a local supply of satellite thrusters, contributing to economic growth and employment, but it would also match Safran's production facilities in France, effectively doubling the company's global production capacity.
The development of efficient and sustainable propulsion systems for satellites is a crucial challenge worldwide, driven by increasingly stringent international regulations that demand greater sustainability and resilience in spacecraft. Safran's PPSX00 plasma thrusters, rated at approximately one kilowatt, will address the growing mobility requirements of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These thrusters will enhance spacecraft maneuverability to avoid collisions and enable the deorbiting of LEO satellites at the end of their operational life.
In a statement, Terran Orbital's CEO and chairman, Marc Bell, expressed confidence in the partnership, commenting: "This deal reflects Safran Electronics & Defense's faith in the value of Terran Orbital's industry-leading products and innovative personnel, while adding to our strategic investments to create more scalable, automated, vertically integrated production systems."
Bell emphasized that the collaboration aims to develop top-of-the-line propulsion systems that enhance spacecraft resilience, maneuverability, and cost-efficiency to meet the needs of national security and commercial customers.
France-based Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Safran Spacecraft Propulsion, a subsidiary of Safran Electronics & Defense, is the European leader in plasma propulsion. Safran Spacecraft Propulsion offers a complete range of electric thrusters and propulsion subsystems for more sustainable satellites and spacecraft.
Jean-Marie Bétermier, senior vice president Space at Safran Electronics & Defense, said: “Our alliance with Terran Orbital will contribute to the emergence of a complementary source of supply for electric propulsion systems to meet the growing needs of the space industry.”
Terran Orbital, renowned for manufacturing satellite products primarily for the aerospace and defense sectors, offers comprehensive satellite solutions encompassing design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and on-orbit support.
The collaboration with Safran will enable Terran Orbital to further enhance its capabilities in delivering advanced propulsion systems that cater to the needs of military, civil, and commercial customers.
Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com