Airbus Netherlands has shipped the first lightweight Vulcain Aft Bay, designated Flight Model 16, to ArianeGroup in France. This structural component, which supports the Vulcain 2.1 engine and transfers thrust to the main stage, is slated for its inaugural flight on an Ariane 6 mission in 2027.
The updated assembly is 55 millimetres shorter and 400 kilograms lighter than the previous version. This final weight reduction is lower than earlier projections, which had initially suggested a decrease of 800 kilograms, later revised to over 550 kilograms by 2025.
The component is part of the Ariane 6 Block 2 upgrade package, which also features more powerful P160C solid rocket boosters that were first deployed in June 2026. The European Space Agency has confirmed that it will not pursue further upgrades under the planned Block 3 program due to a lack of operational justification.
