Thales Alenia Space Welcomes Success of ESA Ministerial Meeting

CANNES, France --- Thales Alenia Space welcomes the decisions and budget allocations approved by the meeting of European ministers in charge of space activities in The Hague on November 25-26.>> The approval of 30 new program items and nearly 10 billion euros in funding by the ministers in charge of space activities from the 18 ESA member states is a sign of their confidence in the European space sector and the companies active in the space industry. The ministers also recognized the importance of investing in the future during this period of international crisis.>> As a major European company, Thales Alenia Space recognizes the significant efforts made by the member states, along with the strategic contribution made by the expertise acquired through its operations in France, Italy, Spain and Belgium, as well as the facilities of its partners in other countries. The fruit of over 40 years of investments in space, these capabilities constitute an essential asset for both current and future generations. Through ESA programs, Thales Alenia Space will continue to pursue excellence to meet the needs of these initiatives.>> The new momentum given to meteorological and environmental monitoring consolidates a scientific and industrial base that is recognized as a global benchmark. The operational continuity of the Sentinelles missions with the scope of the GMES program (Global Monitoring for Environment and Security)-in which Thales Alenia Space plays a lead role-has been assured through the end of the next decade. Likewise, the Meteosat system-comprising satellites built in Cannes that have tracked climate conditions for past 30 years-will be rejuvenated thanks to the MTG third-generation spacecraft.