Valencia, 01 September 2026 – The European Space Agency (ESA) has selected PLD Space as part of the European Launcher Challenge, awarding the company a contract worth €158.9 million to support the development of the next generation of European space launch capabilities.
The selection of the Elche-based company represents another recognition of the technological and industrial potential of the Valencian Region. Strengthens its presence in one of the strategic sectors with the greatest international potential: the space industry.
€158.9 million to strengthen Europe’s access to space
European Launcher Challenge is an ESA strategic initiative. Aimed at strengthening Europe’s autonomous, competitive and resilient access to space.
The contract awarded to PLD Space covers two areas of development. First, it will support the consolidation of its commercial orbital launch service and the progressive increase in launch frequency through 2030, responding to growing international demand for Miura 5.
The second will support the technological evolution of the launcher. Increasing its payload capacity and orbital reach while incorporating propulsive landing capabilities as a step towards reusability.
These improvements are also part of the roadmap towards Miura Next, the company’s future family of heavy-lift launch vehicles.
From Miura 1 to a new generation of European launchers
After demonstrating its technology with Miura 1, PLD Space is now moving towards the debut of Miura 5, designed to place small satellites into orbit. Its first demonstration flight is planned from Europe’s spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.
The company’s industrial model is based on vertical integration, in-house technology development and the validation of its systems under conditions designed to replicate real flight environments.
PLD Space’s selection by ESA therefore strengthens the role of Spanish industry within Europe’s strategy to develop its own capabilities in an area that is increasingly important for the continent’s technological and economic autonomy.
An innovation ecosystem with international potential
The growth of technology companies capable of competing in strategic European programmes contributes to strengthening the Valencian Region’s position as a location for innovation- and knowledge-intensive projects.
For Valencia, this regional context complements an ecosystem that brings together universities, technology centres, startups, innovative companies and specialised talent. Key assets for attracting and developing international projects in deep tech and advanced technology sectors.
ESA’s backing of PLD Space is therefore another indicator of the Valencian ecosystem’s capacity to develop technology with international impact and reach.
