The Swedish government invests in Ariane - Volvo Aero’s space operations saved

The Swedish government has decided that Sweden will continue to participate in the European launch-vehicle program. This means that Volvo Aero’s space operations in Trollhättan will be saved and can continue to advance. “The government’s proposal is very positive. This means that we will maintain our leading position in nozzles and turbines for space rockets,” says Staffan Zackrisson, President of Volvo Aero.

Since 2008, the threat has lingered heavily over Volvo Aero’s space operations, with its approximately 150 employees. The government is now proposing continued financing for the European launch-vehicle program. This means that Volvo Aero can remain a supplier of turbines and nozzles to the European Space Agency’s (ESA) research and development program for launch vehicles and manufacturing of these components for serial production. During the autumn, two important demonstration tests can now be carried out that will enable significant improvements of the rocket engine. “We are currently looking forward to discussions with the Swedish National Space Board and ESA regarding how the Swedish investment can best be utilized on Sweden’s behalf,” says Staffan Zackrisson. At a meeting of ministers in The Hague in November, Sweden directed sharp criticism against ESA’s management of the Ariane space program. The criticism concerned cost efficiency and political transparency. “We hope that the government’s criticism will lead to improvements and we believe that Volvo Aero can contribute to the political process,” says Staffan Zackrisson. June 4 2009 For more information, contact Ulf Palmnäs, Deputy Vice President Business Development, +46 (0)520-937 23, +46 (0)705 690 432.

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