Ariane 6 Rocket Successfully Launches French Military Satellite, Boosting European Space Autonomy

The heavy-lift rocket's first commercial mission marks a pivotal step for Europe's independent access to space and defense capabilities.

The Ariane 6 rocket launched from French Guiana, carrying the CSO-3 military observation satellite into orbit at 800 kilometers (500 miles) above Earth.
This mission completes France's three-satellite CSO network, which enhances military imaging capabilities with high-resolution 3D imagery in visible and infrared light.
The launch underscores Europe's push for strategic space autonomy following reliance on Russian Soyuz rockets and challenges posed by the dominance of SpaceX.
French officials emphasized the satellite's importance for reducing dependency on U.S. intelligence during a period of geopolitical uncertainty and shifting alliances.
The Ariane 6 program faced delays since its planned debut in 2020, with this launch marking a recovery from Europe's year-long inability to independently launch heavy satellites.