Three of Europe's leading aerospace firms—Airbus, Leonardo, and Thales—are nearing a landmark agreement to establish a joint satellite enterprise aimed at competing with Elon Musk's SpaceX. Dubbed 'Project Bromo,' after an Indonesian volcano, the initiative seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for cost-effective low-orbit satellites, reshaping the global space industry.
Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, confirmed progress in an interview with Italy's Corriere della Sera, stating, 'We are on the right path, but complexities in transnational negotiations have delayed finalizing details.' The venture, initially expected to conclude by July, now aims for a deal by year-end.
Roberto Cingolani, head of Leonardo, emphasized the new entity's dual focus: providing satellite production and launch services to both military and civilian clients. Sources indicate the venture may merge existing joint ventures Thales Alenia Space and Telespazio, with Toulouse, France—Airbus's headquarters—as the likely base.
The collaboration reflects Europe's strategic push to strengthen its foothold in the rapidly evolving space sector, where low-orbit satellites are increasingly critical for telecommunications, defense, and environmental monitoring. Analysts suggest the move could spur innovation and offer alternatives to SpaceX's Starlink network.
