The European Investment Bank signed a €30 million venture debt loan with PLD Space on April 7, 2026, in Elche, Spain, to fund the final development of the MIURA 5 small satellite launcher and expand the company’s industrial and launch operations.
Backed by the InvestEU program, this marks the EIB’s first direct investment in the small satellite launch sector. The two-stage MIURA 5 rocket aims to simplify small satellite deployments compared to larger vehicles and is planned to be fully reusable for sustainability. Its first test flight is scheduled for 2026, with capacity for up to 30 missions annually from sites including the Guiana Space Centre.
EIB President Nadia Calviño stated that the funding supports essential capabilities for communications, research, and security. Vice-President Robert de Groot emphasized the need for Europe’s independent space access, noting PLD Space’s progress toward competitive costs.
PLD Space Executive President Ezequiel Sánchez highlighted the loan as key to building infrastructure for global clients, bringing total 2026 funding to €210 million after a €180 million Series C round. European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius described it as a step to bolster Europe’s launcher market position.
PLD Space, founded in 2011, operates facilities in Elche, Teruel, Huelva in Spain, Kourou in French Guiana, and Duqm in Oman, employing over 450 people.