Avio completes integration of liquid-propulsion flight demonstrator

(SpaceEnergy) Avio has completed integration of its liquid-propulsion flight demonstrator and plans to finish ground testing by the end of 2026, advancing technology for future European launch systems.

The Italian propulsion and launch company disclosed the milestone in its first-half results, describing the vehicle as a LOX-CH liquid-propulsion flight demonstrator. It did not provide further performance specifications or a firm flight date in the release.

The development forms part of Avio’s continuing work on liquid and cryogenic propulsion alongside its Vega launcher activities. The company also supplies solid rocket boosters and liquid-oxygen turbopumps for Ariane 6.

Avio said first-half revenue growth was driven partly by increased Vega C production and Ariane 6 booster manufacturing. Net revenues rose 17.5% year on year to €276 million, while its order backlog stood at €2.05 billion at 30 June.

The company also highlighted increasing production of the P160C solid booster, which entered Ariane 6 service during the half year and is intended to support future Vega configuratio