The European Space Agency is evaluating whether to increase Ariane 6 and Vega-C launch capacity to avoid a potential satellite-launch shortfall as demand is forecast to peak in 2030. Director General Josef Aschbacher said the agency must decide early if projections materialize. Ariane 6, operated by Arianespace under ArianeGroup, is planned to fly nine to 10 times annually from 2027, but European scientific missions, other programs and commercial requirements—including Amazon.com's 18-launch order—could exceed that capacity. ESA is also examining human spaceflight aboard European-built rockets, while preparing to use its influence to preserve competition in satellite manufacturing amid a proposed Airbus, Thales and Leonardo merger awaiting antitrust approval.