GMV to lead European Commission study on mobile launch systems

The European Commission (EC) has awarded GMV one of three studies set to examine the potential of mobile responsive launch systems capable of rapidly deploying satellites into orbit from non-permanent ground platforms. The EC launched the call in September 2025 and has recently confirmed that the GMV-led consortium comprising Novaspace, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), and T4i Technology for Propulsion and Innovation will develop one of the proposed studies over the next ten months.

These studies, grouped under the title “Mobile Responsive Launch Systems Studies,” come at a time when the sovereignty and speed with which satellites can be placed into orbit are becoming increasingly imperative, due to the growing number of natural and human threats. Developing a mobile launch system would therefore enhance reaction capabilities and meet urgent demands by rapidly deploying satellites when needed.

The study’s objectives include identifying the European Union’s commercial and institutional needs, both in the civil and defense domains; defining and exchanging viable solutions for ground and launch systems; and outlining a roadmap for developing the proposal into a fully-fledged operational service.