Swiss start-up uses russian rocket engine

Swiss Space Systems (S3) is progessing rapidly in the development of its satellite launch system based on an Airbus aircraft and a reusable suborbital shuttle, the SOAR, with first commercial missions beginning in 2018. To successfully conduct this innovative project at the cutting-edge of aviation and space, the Swiss company has been able to assemble a high-quality international network of partners, industries, research centers and universities. Pascal Jaussi, Founder and CEO of S3 outlines: « Our international community of partners is formed by well-recognized specialists in aeronautics and aerospace. Their support allows us to attain concrete results with considerably shorter timeframes and smaller required budgets compared to other similar programs. »

S3 will collaborate with two of the Russian space industry jewels: JSC Kuznetsov will provide the rocket engine used for the suborbital shuttle developed by S3, while RKK Energia will study the conception of the upper stage destined to place satellites in low earth orbit. This is the first time that a European company collaborates with Russian companies specializing in the development and manufacturing of propulsion systems. This agreement with the creators of the world’s best rocket engines constitutes a decisive milestone achieved by the Swiss aerospace company.

There is still much work to be accomplished, but Nicolas Bideau, Swiss Ambassador and Switzerland Presence Chief is particularly pleased to see this unique collaboration: « Through the double partnership with these reputed Russian aerospace companies, S3 is an example of a Switzerland which innovates, dares and federates. This is one more step in the long history of successful collaboration between our two countries, which are celebrating 200 years of diplomatic relationships this year. We are happy to have been able to host them at the Swiss House here in Sochi. »