Two UK sites shortlisted to host ESA’s hypersonic INVICTUS test programme

The European Space Agency (ESA) has shortlisted two UK locations — Spaceport Cornwall at Cornwall Airport Newquay and Spaceport Machrihanish in Scotland — as potential test sites for its INVICTUS hypersonic research programme, the agency has announced.

The selection recognises the UK’s aerospace infrastructure and expertise as part of a wider effort to develop hypersonic flight capabilities in Europe.

INVICTUS is a research initiative designed to deliver a European hypersonic flight test platform, aimed at accelerating the development of technologies critical to future reusable spaceplanes and advanced aerospace systems. The programme will test innovations such as advanced propulsion, guidance systems and thermal protection under real‑world conditions, with the goal of reducing risk and supporting more aircraft‑like access to space.

ESA’s Director of Technology, Dietmar Pilz, said the programme could become “a cornerstone for Europe’s future in space access,” supporting competitive capability and collaboration among member states.

The UK Space Agency’s Head of Space Technology, Tony Forsythe, commented that the shortlisting reflects the strength of UK aerospace infrastructure and capability. He noted that the initiative could help position the UK as a leader in cutting‑edge aerospace innovation while also creating high‑value jobs, driving regional growth and building skills.

Spaceport Cornwall, the UK’s first licensed spaceport, offers a long runway, flexible aviation airspace and a combination of civil and military aviation facilities — attributes seen as suited to accommodating hypersonic test activity. Spaceport Machrihanish was also cited for its potential to host aspects of the programme and contribute to the UK’s wider aerospace ecosystem.

Representatives from the aerospace industry and UK government have welcomed the development as an opportunity to strengthen national innovation and expand the country’s role in next‑generation aerospace technologies. If selected, the sites would support INVICTUS flight testing and systems integration, contributing to broader objectives in space access and advanced propulsion research.

INVICTUS is funded through ESA’s General Support Technology Programme (GSTP) and Technology Development Element (TDE), and forms part of the agency’s efforts to sustain competitive hypersonic and reusable launch capabilities in Europe.