PLD Space, a pioneering Spanish aerospace company, announced securing a substantial 120 million euros in funding for the development of the first Spanish factory producing space rockets in series, located in Elche, Spain. This investment will also facilitate the expansion of the team in the areas of production, supply chain, and quality.
The significant funding will primarily be allocated towards the creation of the new Spanish factory for space rocket production. By expanding its capacity to test integrated engines and launchers, PLD Space aims to boast the largest private infrastructure in Europe for designing, manufacturing, testing, and launching space rockets.
The company has also received backing from the French Space Agency CNES to construct the MIURA 5 launch base in French Guiana, marking a significant milestone in their global expansion strategy.
With an investor profile consisting of industrial and qualified institutional backers, including noteworthy entities like Aciturri and the Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI), PLD Space solidifies its commitment to industry-leading technologies and strategic growth.
Commenting on this significant achievement, Raúl Verdú, the Chief Business Development Officer and co-founder of PLD Space, expressed confidence in the company’s ability to deliver superior results and meet its ambitious milestones with the support of shareholders, clients, the team, and suppliers.
The funds secured are earmarked for the extensive expansion of infrastructure and corporate structure, including a five-fold increase in the size of facilities, inauguration of the first serial space rocket factory in Spain, and the expansion of test facilities. Furthermore, the company will extend its workforce, aiming to employ 300 professionals by the end of the year.
In addition, PLD Space plans to commence construction of the launch base at the European CSG spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, in 2024, solidifying its position as a key player in the global space industry.
Established in 2011, PLD Space has been committed to revolutionizing access to space and has achieved recognition for its MIURA launcher family, positioning Spain as a leading nation capable of deploying small satellites into space. With a team of over 190 professionals spread across its technical facilities in Elche, Teruel, Huelva, and French Guiana, the company is gearing up for a period of unprecedented growth and innovation.
The Business Press 