Space: from experimental rockets to Ariane

In the early 1960s, SEPR and LRBA developed propulsion systems for experimental missiles named after precious stones - Agate, Topaze, Emeraude, Saphir. This work allowed them to develop their understanding of the technologies underlying both missiles and launch vehicles. The first French launcher, Diamant, successfully lifted off on November 16, 1965, carrying the first French satellite. LRBA supplied its liquid-propellant first stage, while SEPR provided the solid rocket motors for the second and third stages.

June 1969 saw two milestones in France's space program. First, the M40 liquid rocket engine, predecessor to the Viking (now used on Ariane 4) was successfully tested. That same month, the government decided to create the Société Européenne de Propulsion (SEP), grouping all French missile and launch vehicle propulsion operations. SEP consolidated SEPR and Snecma's missiles division. On July 21, Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon...

The LRBA's industrial operations were added to SEP in November 1971. In 1973, following the failure of the Europa program, Europe embarked on the Ariane launch vehicle to ensure its independent access to space. SEP headed a European team in charge of the design and production of the propulsion systems for the launcher's three stages.

Turbomeca, the other French engine-maker

Turbomeca continued along its own path. In 1960, it started tests of the Astazou turboshaft engine, intended for the Alouette II helicopter and the first in a long series. Towards 1965, Snecma and Turbomeca teamed up on the Larzac jet engine, while Turbomeca and Rolls-Royce created a joint subsidiary for the Adour jet engine, intended for the French-English Jaguar. That same year, Turbomeca kicked off tests of the Turmo IIIC4, which would power Puma helicopters. In 1968, the Jaguar made its first flight, powered by twin Adours. This engine was also chosen for the Mitsubishi T2, which first flew in 1971, and for the Hawk, which made its debut flight in 1974. The famous Alpha Jet trainer, powered by two Larzac engines, made its maiden flight in 1973. At the same time, Turbomeca finished development of the Arriel turboshaft, which would make its first flight in 1974, and would power Dauphin and Ecureuil helicopters.

Equipment business takes shape

In 1968, Snecma took control of Hispano-Suiza. In addition to aircraft engines, this agreement brought Snecma various equipment and service businesses: landing gear (Hispano-Suiza and Bugatti), turbochargers, industrial turbines and aircraft engine repair (Sochata). There were strong synergies between the disciplines involved in mechanical engineering and aircraft engines. Snecma began to develop its strategy of consolidating its new equipment and repair operations, to counter the fluctuations inherent in the traditionally cyclical aviation business.

Towards the end of 1970, Snecma and Messier signed an agreement to merge their operations, especially landing gear, wheels, brakes and hydraulics, leading to the creation of Messier-Hispano in 1971. Snecma originally had a 34% stake, then took control in 1973. In 1975 Snecma grouped its aircraft engine MRO operations with those of Sochata, creating Sochata-Snecma.