Europe Successfully Launches Two New Satellites to improve Galileo Navigation System

On December 17, 2025, two new satellites for Europe’s Galileo navigation system were successfully launched from the Spaceport in French Guiana. This marked the 14th mission of the operational satellite program and demonstrated Europe’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its navigation capabilities and independence. The mission, designated VA266, showcased the new Ariane 6 heavy-lift rocket, which was employed for the first time to deploy these satellites.

The satellites, known as SAT 33 and SAT 34, completed their separation from the launcher approximately four hours after takeoff. Officials confirmed the success of the launch once signals were acquired, indicating that both satellites were functioning properly and their solar panels had been deployed.

Andrius Kubilius, the EU Commissioner for Defence and Space, remarked on the significance of this launch, emphasizing that it bolsters Europe’s global navigation services by providing improved precision, reliability, and autonomy. Josef Aschbacher, Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA), added that with the addition of these satellites, Galileo has further solidified its position as the most accurate global navigation satellite system, enhancing its operational reliability.

The European Space Agency collaborated with Arianespace to carry out the launch on behalf of the European Commission, while OHB manufactured the satellites as part of its contract with the ESA. Now in orbit, the operational oversight will be managed by the EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA), which will bring the satellites into full service.