KASSAV2: GTD and Safran to Develop a New Autonomous Flight Safety System for Space Launch Vehicles
GTD France and Safran Data Systems, in collaboration with the French Space Agency, are developing KASSAV2 (Kit Autonome de Sauvegarde en Vol – Autonomous Kit as In-Flight Backup Solution), an innovative autonomous flight safety system designed to modernize the European spaceport.
The initiative aims to reinforce launch safety and prepare the future of the Guiana Space Center (CSG) by introducing alternative solutions to radar-based tracking systems.
Reinforcing Launch Safety at the European Spaceport
During every launch, a space vehicle is programmed to follow a precise trajectory within a defined flight corridor. If the launcher deviates from this corridor, it must be neutralized immediately to prevent risks to people, property and the environment. This process is known as the flight safety mission.
Currently at CSG, launcher tracking relies on ground-based radar systems operated by safety teams who manually trigger neutralization procedures when necessary.
However:
- The existing radar infrastructure will reach end-of-life within the next decade.
- The system is difficult to adapt to emerging launch concepts such as micro-launchers and reusable launch vehicles.
- Operating and maintenance costs remain high.
To address these challenges, new technological solutions are being developed as part of the CSG-NG modernization plan, aligned with commitments made during the latest ESA ministerial conference.
KASSAV2: An Autonomous Onboard Flight Safety Kit
Among the proposed alternatives, KASSAV2 stands out for its ability to simplify operations and significantly reduce decision-making time.
The concept integrates three key flight safety functions directly onboard the launcher:
- Localization
- Anomaly diagnosis
- Neutralization triggering
If a trajectory deviation or anomaly is detected, the onboard algorithm autonomously initiates the neutralization sequence — eliminating reliance on ground-based radar confirmation and saving critical seconds.
This autonomous architecture improves:
- Operational efficiency
- Safety response time
- System availability
Leveraging Proven Digital and Navigation Technologies
KASSAV2 is built on established digital technologies and positioning systems already widely used in land and air transport sectors.
A key strategic advantage is the potential integration of the European Galileo navigation system, ensuring independence from foreign satellite constellations such as GPS.
By combining autonomy, digital resilience and European navigation infrastructure, KASSAV2 supports:
- Increased safety
- Reduced operational costs
- Greater flexibility for new launcher types
A Strategic Step Toward the Future of European Launch Operations
The development of KASSAV2 aligns with the long-term modernization objectives of the European spaceport. It enables CSG to accommodate future launch concepts, including micro-launchers and reusable rockets, while enhancing reliability and cost-efficiency.
Under the project framework:
- Safran Data Systems will develop the hardware components.
- GTD France will implement the onboard flight safety software.
The first demonstration flight of KASSAV2 is scheduled for 2023, marking a major milestone in the evolution of autonomous flight safety systems for space transportation.
