The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has signed a contract with SSC Space to establish satellite launch capability from Esrange Space Center in Kiruna (northern Sweden). The contract value is 209 million Swedish kronor, and the capability is expected to be in place by 2028.

– This contract is an important step in the development of Sweden's and Europe's space capabilities. By building a national satellite launch capacity from Esrange, we strengthen both Sweden's and Europe's access to space, both for the Swedish Armed Forces and commercial actors, and contribute to increased resilience and freedom of action in an increasingly strategic domain, says Charlotta Sund, CEO and Group President of SSC Space, in a press release.

The contract includes systems and infrastructure to ensure protection and availability for the Swedish Armed Forces, partners, and allies' satellite launches from Esrange, according to FMV.

– The ability to launch satellites into orbit strengthens Sweden's position as a space nation, says Carl-Fredrik Edström, head of FMV's aviation and space business area.

This initiative is part of the government's decision from 2023 to allocate approximately one billion Swedish kronor to the Swedish Armed Forces until 2032 to develop Sweden's space capabilities. The decision includes improved space situational awareness, expansion of the infrastructure at Esrange in collaboration with SSC Space, and the capability for the Swedish Armed Forces to conduct multiple satellite launches. An initial collaboration between FMV and SSC Space began in December 2024.

According to SSC Space, the company is collaborating with Firefly Aerospace as a rocket partner in establishing the launch capability. The expansion of Launch Complex 3C, where Firefly's Alpha rocket is to be launched, is progressing as planned. Tracking and control systems, safety and depot facilities, as well as the launch control centre are already in place.