PLD Space advances MIURA 5 rocket qualification with first fully integrated unit

by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Nov 21, 2025

PLD Space has introduced its first fully integrated MIURA 5 unit, Qualification Model 1 (QM1), initiating comprehensive subsystem validation before the rocket's initial flight in early 2026. The QM1 will enable end-to-end testing of critical components, including the first and second stages, simulating real flight conditions to reduce risk and enhance reliability ahead of launch.

The MIURA 5 second stage will undergo a destruction test in the United States to certify the Flight Termination System. This process verifies onboard explosive charges that would destroy the vehicle in the event of an anomaly during flight. Additionally, the first stage will conduct a Wet Dress Rehearsal, performing full propellant loading to test structural integrity under operational conditions.

Raul Torres, CEO and co-founder of PLD Space, said "Presenting our first integrated MIURA 5 unit is proof that our model works: vertical integration, proprietary infrastructure and a philosophy based on testing, learning and improving. This combination allows us to move faster than ever without compromising reliability, which is what truly makes the difference in this sector."

PLD Space intends to manufacture three complete MIURA 5 units in five months. By December, a second qualification unit will be finalized, and by the first quarter of 2026, the flight-ready rocket will deploy for the launch campaign in Kourou. The rapid schedule positions PLD Space as a leader in orbital launcher development speed and quality standards in Europe.

Testing continues at PLD Space's Teruel facility, covering propulsion, tank and interstage structure, avionics, and systems such as fairing retention mechanisms. Civil engineering work at the Guiana Space Centre (CSG) also progresses, enhancing the launch pad, vehicle preparation area, and control centre. PLD Space will be the first private firm to operate from the historic ELM-Diamant area within the European spaceport, managed by CNES.

Ezequiel Sanchez, Executive President of PLD Space, stated "The simultaneous advancement of all MIURA 5 subsystems demonstrates the robustness of our industrial strategy and our ability to tackle any challenge with speed, quality and cost-efficiency. This integrated approach guarantees the highest standards of reliability and competitiveness, consolidating PLD Space as a European benchmark and strengthening the technological excellence we have built over the years."

Qualification Model 1 marks a significant step toward MIURA 5's maiden flight in 2026 and confirms PLD Space's role in Europe's access to space. The MIURA 5 program is supported by Spain's Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, funded by the European Union's NextGenerationEU initiative under the Aerospace PERTE program managed by CDTI.