European Space Agency has issued a call for proposals to design a fully reusable and responsive launch system based on spaceplanes, targeting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) rather than established prime contractors.
The call, published on 27 February, seeks proposals for at least two distinct design concepts that could demonstrate how lift-generating spaceplanes might provide a more efficient and responsive alternative to traditional rocket-based launch systems.
ESA noted that most reusable launch systems currently rely on conventional rocket architectures powered by liquid rocket engines, whereas spaceplanes could potentially improve reliability, operational responsiveness and overall reusability.
The agency is also encouraging companies to explore novel propulsion technologies, including detonation-based engines and air-breathing propulsion systems, as part of their proposals.
The initiative excludes major aerospace primes and projects already led by large contractors. That means programmes such as Space Rider and projects involving Dassault Aviation—including the VORTEX—are unlikely to qualify.
Several European startups may be well positioned to respond. POLARIS Spaceplanes, founded in 2019, is developing vehicles for hypersonic testing and space transportation that combine jet engines for takeoff and landing with aerospike rocket engines for ascent to space.
France-based AndroMach, founded in 2023, is developing the ENVOL vehicle capable of reaching altitudes of around 200 kilometres before gliding back to Earth. The company is also working on a larger orbital concept called ÉTOILE, although its current design relies on rocket launch rather than full reusability.
Another potential participant is FAST Aerospace, established in 2024 and developing the HyperDart concept, designed to deliver up to 250 kilograms to low Earth orbit.
A further contender could be Dawn Aerospace, which operates a European subsidiary in the Netherlands and has developed the Aurora.
ESA’s initiative reflects growing interest in next-generation reusable launch technologies aimed at improving launch frequency, flexibility and cost efficiency within Europe’s emerging commercial space sector.
