35 Years of partnership powering Europe’s access to space

When Ariane 6 prepares for launch, it does so with critical technology from KONGSBERG onboard. With a newly signed contract, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace continues its long-standing contribution to Europe’s launch capability – extending a legacy that spans more than three decades.

Under the new contract, KONGSBERG will supply critical systems for a total of 27 Ariane 6 missions over the next three years. The deliveries include 317 Optical Safety Barriers (OSB) and 90 Upper Part Attachment (UPPA) mechanisms – components essential to safe launch operations.

The OSBs are part of the launchers flight safety system, while the UPPA units secure the upper stage boosters ahead of lift-off. All deliveries will support Ariane6 launches through to 2028.

A legacy of launch systems

What began with the development of booster mechanisms for Ariane 5 in 1990 has grown into more than three decades of contribution to Europe’s flagship launcher programme.  KONGSBERGs Booster Attachment and Release Mechanisms (DAAV/DAAR) were designed to keep the solid rocket boosters securely fastened during launch and enable precise separation from the main stage. Across more than 100 successful Ariane 5 launches, KONGSBERG delivered these mechanisms, ensuring safe and reliable performance in one of the most demanding environments.

With Ariane 6, Europe’s new modular and versatile launch system, KONGSBERG continues this legacy. Development of Ariane 6 components began in 2016, and deliveries of OSB and UPPA units started in 2021. To date, 15 flight sets have been delivered, with production continuing under the new agreement. The UPPA mechanism, based on the proven DAAV design, has been adapted to meet Ariane 6 requirements, ensuring secure attachment and precise separation of the rocket’s boosters.

From electro-pyro to Optopyro

The Optical Safety Barrier (OSB) is part of KONGSBERG’s advanced optical pyrotechnic system, known as Optopyro. Instead of using traditional electro-pyro systems that rely on primary explosives, this technology initiates pyrotechnic functions using laser pulses transmitted through optical fibres.

Optopyro offers several key advantages, including improved safety, simplified integration, reduced costs and full compliance with modern environmental standards. By eliminating primary explosives and lead-based components, the system not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances reliability and resistance to electromagnetic interference.

Since 2001, KONGSBERG has been developing optical pyrotechnic technology in close collaboration with leading space organisations including ESA, CNES and the Norwegian Space Center.

That long-term expertise now positions KONGSBERG as a key contributor to Ariane6, which provides Europe with independent and flexible access to space for missions ranging from Earth observation and telecommunications to deep space exploration.