RFA Secures €30m Investment From KKR

Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), a prominent launch service provider has successfully secured a substantial €30 million investment from KKR, a renowned global investment firm. As the demand for innovative and cost-effective launch services to access space continues to soar, RFA's strategic positioning within the market becomes increasingly advantageous.

The investment from KKR comes at a pivotal juncture in RFA's journey, propelling the company's upcoming integrated first stage test and further advancing the development of the SaxaVord Spaceport launch pad in Scotland.

Credit : RFA

The goal is to prepare for the eventual launch of the RFA ONE microlauncher, with its inaugural flight scheduled for the second quarter of 2024.

“We aim to provide cost-effective access to space and data-generating business models in space for monitoring, connecting, and protecting our planet. This new financing reflects confidence in RFA and validates our cost-efficient approach and technical achievements. Partnering with KKR as a long-term investor makes us proud – their financial resources, global network and industrial expertise will accelerate our mission, and support RFA towards our first launch next year and beyond.” - Stefan Tweraser, CEO of RFA

This latest injection of capital stands as a resounding vote of confidence in RFA's pioneering efforts to capitalize on the surging demand for access to space on a global scale. KKR's investment not only solidifies its position as a significant player in RFA's growth story but also highlights the investment firm's dedication to fostering transformative technological advancements that will shape the world of tomorrow.

This comes on the heels of RFA's successful completion of its upper stage hot fire test in May 2023, a pioneering feat that further cements its commitment to technical innovation and cost efficiency.

Credit : RFA

KKR's investment stems from a holding company associated with its latest European private equity fund, KKR European Fund VI. 

“KKR is excited to support RFA in its efforts to revolutionize access to space, which is crucial for emerging technologies that will shape our future. The team’s exceptional track record of achieving technical milestones and their unwavering focus on cost leadership are precisely the right strategy for future success in the global marketplace. We look forward to supporting RFA on its growth path.” - Christian Ollig, Partner and Head of the DACH region at KKR

With KKR as a formidable partner and an ambitious roadmap ahead, Rocket Factory Augsburg is poised to revolutionize space access, setting the stage for groundbreaking achievements in the realm of space exploration and technology.