Dassault Aviation and OHB Propose VORTEX-S to ESA

On May 11, 2026, Dassault Aviation and OHB announced they are collaborating to propose a new multipurpose spaceplane, VORTEX-S, to the European Space Agency (ESA). This innovative spacecraft is designed for round-transport to space stations and autonomous orbital missions. Several European partners are joining the initiative to advance Europe's capabilities in space mobility.

Dassault Aviation will serve as the prime architect and integrator, while OHB will handle the service module. Both companies are keen on expanding their team by engaging major European space companies to further this ambitious project.

Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, emphasized the partnership's aim to bolster Europe's space technology while Marco Fuchs, CEO of OHB, highlighted the joint expertise of the two companies. The collaboration reflects a strategic vision of developing reusable European space transportation systems.