Germany’s OHB Technology Will Produce First Eight Galileo Spacecraft.
The European Commission has selected OHB Technology of Germany to produce at least eight Galileo navigation and positioning satellites for about 350 million euros ($525 million) in a decision that postpones any award to competitor Astrium Satellites pending further negotiations with Astrium, industry officials informed.
The commission is expected to inform European Union member states of its decision the week of Dec. 9, officials informed.
One industry official said the decision, which was not expected, already has provoked a strong negative reaction in southern Germany, where Astrium had planned to perform much of its Galileo work, and that political pressure will be applied to reverse the ruling in the coming days.
About OHB Technology AG.
With over 25 years of experience in high technology together with its integrated skills in the areas of aviation, aerospace and telematics, the Group is ideally positioned in Europe. Its four business units “Space Systems + Security”, “Payloads + Science”, “Space Transportation + Aerospace Structures” and “Telematics + Satellite Operations” offer international customers sophisticated solutions and systems.
About Astrium.
Number 1 in Europe and no. 3 worldwide, Astrium employs 15,000 men and women in five countries: France, Germany, the UK, Spain and the Netherlands. 15,000 professionals chosen from among the very best, all passionate about space and driven by the great adventure of our time – bringing the infinite potential of space down to Earth for the benefit of mankind. Guaranteeing Europe’s access to space as the established leader in space transportation, satellite systems and services, Astrium has for over 40 years been dedicated to bring you all the space you need – now and in the future. It is a mission which resonates with many of the most prestigious names in space – Ariane, the International Space Station, Envisat, Mars Express, Skynet 5 … It is a mission with a consistent commitment, to offer our customers the best possible solutions in the market, with unbeatable levels of, quality, cost-efficiency and schedule adherence.