PLD Space has achieved a crucial milestone in the enhancement of its MIURA 5 orbital launcher through the successful integrated testing of its TEPREL-C rocket engines. This achievement signifies a significant progression towards the commencement of the engine's flight qualification campaign, scheduled to kick off at the end of June.

The Spanish aerospace company places a strong emphasis on propulsion as the cornerstone of its technology, as evidenced by its enduring motto: "No engine, no rocket." This principle was validated in October 2023 when the TEPREL-B engine powered MIURA 1, the first private European rocket to reach space. The more advanced TEPREL-C engine builds upon this success with increased complexity and performance.

Operating on kerosene (RP-1) and liquid oxygen (LOX), the TEPREL-C engine will propel the MIURA 5 into orbit. Five sea-level versions of the engine, each generating 190 kN of thrust, will drive the rocket's first stage. The second stage will utilize a vacuum-optimized variant producing 75 kN.

PLD Space has efficiently transitioned the TEPREL-C engine from concept to testing phase, capitalizing on the legacy of TEPREL-B and its vertically integrated development model. This approach involves internal control over all phases, from design and production to testing and launch execution.

To facilitate this progress, the company has upgraded its Elche-based production center with advanced manufacturing techniques like copper and nickel electroplating, Inconel welding, and X-ray inspections for non-destructive testing.

Starting from scratch, PLD Space has engineered crucial engine subsystems, including new turbopumps, gas generators, and cryogenic valves. The turbopumps for both rocket stages have undergone extensive testing and have been validated against performance standards, establishing them as the largest ever developed by a private European company.

All tests of engine components were carried out at the company's dedicated Teruel test facility, the largest private rocket engine test site in Europe. This infrastructure enables swift iteration and enhancement, granting PLD Space a remarkable development agility within the aerospace sector.

Having concluded initial testing, PLD Space is now ready to embark on the full engine qualification phase, solidifying its position as a leader in European small launch systems.