P160C boosters for Ariane 6 infographic

Infographic showing how P160C solid-propellant motors are used as Ariane 6 boosters. 

Ariane 6 is a versatile rocket that can be configured and adapted to the needs of each mission it launches, and it was designed from the start for continuous upgrades. The heavy-lift rocket debuted in 2024 with two boosters based on the P120C motor. On its sixth launch in February 2026 Ariane 6 flew for the first time with four boosters.

P160C boosters debut in 2026. Holding 14 tonnes more propellant each the P160C-based boosters can increase Ariane 6 performance by 10% to 15% depending on the orbit. 

The motors that form the core of Ariane 6’s boosters are also used on ESA’s smaller rocket Vega-C. The sharing of technology and hardware between the two rockets lowers costs and improves the supply chain, allowing for more,and more frequent, launches.

P160C was developed by Europropulsion under contract from ArianeGroup and Avio who are developing the Ariane 6 launcher systems and Vega launcher systems for ESA. Its structure is made in Italy, the rocket engine nozzle in France and the igniter in Norway. The boosters are loaded with fuel and finalised for Ariane 6 at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.

The development of Ariane 6 is another stellar example of European cooperation. The European Space Agency works with an industrial network in 13 European countries, led by prime contractor and design authority ArianeGroup. French space agency CNES manages the range operations at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. Arianespace was the launch service provider for this flight for Amazon.