🇸🇪 SSC Space signs agreement with FMV on satellite launch capability from Esrange
March 16, 2026
SSC Space has signed an agreement with the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) to establish satellite launch capability from Esrange Space Center. The contract is valued at SEK 209 million and lays the foundation for a national capability that will give the Swedish Armed Forces control and the ability to launch their own satellites into orbit.
The contract covers systems and infrastructure that ensure protection, availability, and execution of satellite launches for the Swedish Armed Forces, as well as for partners and allies. The capability is scheduled to be operational by 2028.
“This agreement is an important step in the development of Sweden’s and Europe’s space capabilities. By building a national satellite launch capability from Esrange, we are strengthening both Sweden’s and Europe’s access to space, for both the Swedish Armed Forces and commercial operators, and contributing to increased resilience and freedom of action in an increasingly strategic domain,” says Charlotta Sund, President and CEO of SSC Space.
The initiative is part of a government decision from 2023 to allocate approximately SEK 1 billion to the Swedish Armed Forces through 2032 to develop Sweden’s space capabilities. The decision includes, among other things, improved space situational awareness, expansion of infrastructure at Esrange in cooperation with SSC Space, and the ability for the Swedish Armed Forces to carry out multiple satellite launches.
SSC Space is working with Firefly Aerospace as its launch vehicle partner in establishing satellite launch capability from Esrange. Infrastructure development for Launch Complex 3C is progressing according to plan, from which Firefly’s Alpha rocket will be launched. Tracking and control systems, security and storage facilities, as well as the launch control center, are already in place.
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Originally published on March 16, 2026 by SSC Space.
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