First half-shell of Ariane 6 fairing

With the help of ESA, RUAG Space developed an out-of-autoclave process where the carbon-fibre shells of the rocket fairing are cured in an industrial oven instead of an autoclave. It reduces cost and saves time.

The first fairing manufactured in this way was flown on Ariane 5, flight VA238 on 28 June 2017. Vega began using the new type of fairing on 1 August 2017.

Ariane 6 and Vega‑C fairings will also be produced in the same way. The first half-shell of Ariane 6 (pictured) has been made.