I think the value proposition is more about national pride and security, so they can keep launching things if they have a falling out with other countries. Like when Russia decided to start a war and take Oneweb satellites hostage. Imagine a world where the US elected a crazy nationalist who wanted out of NATO…
When you can get a mature and reliable rocket faster for less money, the value proposition for Ariane 6 starts looking pretty weak.
I think the value proposition is more about national pride and security, so they can keep launching things if they have a falling out with other countries. Like when Russia decided to start a war and take Oneweb satellites hostage. Imagine a world where the US elected a crazy nationalist who wanted out of NATO…
Absolutely, and for a national security type payload that’s both a requirement and enough to make a decision.
That’s a limited market though. I won’t eat my hat, but I will be surprised if for example Viasat would choose to go on Ariane.