EADS Astrium is sole prime contractor for the Ariane 5 system, responsible for the delivery to Arianespace of a complete and fully-tested launcher, and supplies all Ariane 5 stages, numerous sub-assemblies, the vehicle equipment bay and flight software. To complement Ariane 5’s heavy-lift launch capability, EADS Astrium offers launch services for smaller payloads through shareholdings in Starsem (Soyuz vehicle) and Eurockot Launch Services (Rockot vehicle).
As prime contractor for the ballistic missile systems in France’s nuclear deterrent force, EADS Astrium is currently responsible for the development and production of the submarine-launched M45 and M51 missiles, their operation and maintenance.
EADS Astrium is prime contractor to ESA for the core European contributions to the International Space Station, the Columbus laboratory and the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) supply vessel. The company is also prime contractor to ESA for all European industrial ISS operation and utilisation activities.
EADS Astrium is the European specialist for atmospheric re-entry systems and has supplied thermal protection systems for all European interplanetary missions. Its activities also include propulsion systems and space equipment.
