Safran Electronics & Defense has announced an expansion of its manufacturing capabilities for small satellite propulsion systems.
To meet the anticipated growth of the North American small satellite market, which is projected to surpass $5 billion by 2030, the French aerospace company will open two new manufacturing facilities: one in Vernon, France, and another at an undisclosed location in Colorado.
“Safran is committed to expanding its manufacturing capabilities to meet the dynamic needs of the US small satellite market,” Jean-Marie Bétermier, Senior Vice President of Space at Safran Electronics & Defense, stated. “By targeting the global demand for electric propulsion in small satellites, we will meet the challenge of increasingly stringent international regulations for sustainability and resilience around the world.”
The twin facilities will produce the EPS X00 system, with an anticipated output of around 200 engines per year. The first delivery is expected in the first half of 2025 for the French site and in the first quarter of 2026 for its US counterpart.
Safran’s EPS X00 system, featuring the PPS X00 thruster, is designed to cater to the specific requirements of the “New Space” market. Designed for satellites weighing over 200 kilograms (440 pounds), it operates at 400 W to 1 kW of power and delivers thrust for up to 5,000 hours, making it suitable for various low-Earth orbit applications. This system will enhance the maneuverability of spacecraft, allowing for collision avoidance and facilitating the deorbiting of satellites at the end of their lifecycle.
“Our first engine will fly before the end of the year,” Bétermier told L’Usine Nouvelle. “We have done all the useful ground tests necessary to do our industrial validation and qualification reviews.”
The Colorado facility will also house Safran’s local team for satellite communications, and space and ground surveillance