[SatNews] Thales Alenia Space Belgium has signed with Astrium, prime contractor for the Ariane 5 ME (Midlife Evolution) launcher for the European Space Agency (ESA), the contract for the development of the control electronics on the upper-stage Vinci® engine steering system.

Scheduled to make its first flight in mid-2018, Ariane 5 ME is a higher performance version of Europe's Ariane 5 launch vehicle. The main change is a new, more powerful cryogenic upper stage powered by the Vinci® engine, developed under Snecma responsibility. This engine offers multiple restart capability, greatly increasing the launcher's satellite orbital positioning capabilities. In addition to developing the electronic control power unit (ECPU), Thales Alenia Space Belgium is developing a new version of the power distribution unit that supplies electricity to all of the launcher's systems and equipment. Including these two new products, Thales Alenia Space Belgium will provide a total of 21 components and subsystems on each Ariane 5 ME.

Thales Alenia Space Belgium has provided equipment for Ariane launchers (from 1 to 5) since the early 70’s.

Thales Alenia Space Belgium's infosite is located at this direct link.