The new P160C engine to power Ariane 6’s upcoming flight

The P160C solid rocket engine represents the next evolution in European launch vehicle propulsion, enhancing the performance and versatility of Ariane 6 while maintaining compatibility with existing launcher architecture.

Building on the proven P120C design, the P160C motor is one metre longer (14.5 metres for the P160C and 13.5 metres for the P120C) and carries up to 156 tons of solid propellant, an increase of approximately 10% compared with the P120C (which carried up to 142 tons of solid propellant).

The booster’s external dimensions remain unchanged at 22 metres in length and 3.4 metres in diameter. The interfaces with the Ariane 6 central core are also unchanged, allowing the launcher to be equipped with either P120C or P160C boosters without modification.

The name “P160C” reflects the motor’s key characteristics: “P” stands for powder, referring to the solid propellant; “160” denotes the approximately 160 tonnes of propellant it contains; and “C” stands for common, highlighting its use across both the Ariane 6 and Vega C launch systems.

The P160C upgrade will increase Ariane 6 payload capacity to low Earth orbit (LEO) by more than two tons, supporting the deployment and early orbit operations of large satellite constellations. It also delivers substantial performance improvements for geostationary, scientific, and exploration missions, expanding the range of missions that Ariane 6 can serve.

Operated by Arianespace, Ariane 6 continues to play a key role in strengthening Europe’s launch capabilities and meeting the growing demand for high-performance access to space.

Find out more about Arianespace’s upcoming Ariane 6 mission VA269 using the first P160C engine here.

Find out more about Ariane 6 here.

Find out more about P160C successful fire up here.