Spaceport Cornwall shortlisted by European Space Agency for INVICTUS hypersonic test programme

Spaceport Cornwall has been shortlisted by the European Space Agency (ESA) as a potential location for the agency’s pioneering INVICTUS hypersonic flight test programme. This milestone positions Cornwall at the forefront of Europe’s efforts to develop a sovereign hypersonic test capability and accelerate the technologies required for future reusable spaceplanes.

INVICTUS will deliver a first-of-its-kind European hypersonic flight test platform, bridging the gap between ground-based research and full-scale flight demonstrations. The capability is intended to support advances in reusable launch systems, high-speed flight, and next-generation aerospace development for civil, commercial, and defence applications across Europe.

Working in partnership with Frazer-Nash Consultancy, Spaceport Cornwall contributed to the UK’s operational concept for hosting INVICTUS test activity, drawing on its multi-role status as a licensed spaceport, commercial airport, civil aerodrome, and active military operating environment adjacent to RAF St Mawgan.

Spaceport Cornwall’s shortlisting reflects a unique combination of operational advantages rarely found in one location. The site brings together one of the UK’s longest runways, extensive flexible airspace suited to hypersonic flight profiling, established horizontal launch infrastructure, direct access to controlled Atlantic corridors, and the coexistence of both civilian and military aviation facilities. This environment provides an unparalleled setting for the demonstration and testing of technologies that will underpin reusable spaceplanes, advanced propulsion systems, and sovereign hypersonic flight capability.

Tony Forsythe, Head of Space Technology, UK Space Agency: “The shortlisting of Spaceport Cornwall and Machrihanish demonstrates the UK’s infrastructure and expertise in advancing cutting-edge aerospace technologies. INVICTUS represents exactly the kind of ambitious, collaborative programme that could cement the UK’s position as a European leader in space innovation.“By pioneering reusable spaceplane technologies and hypersonic flight capabilities, we’re potentially not only opening new frontiers for space access but also creating high-value jobs, driving regional growth, and developing skills that will benefit the UK for generations to come.” 

Noah Law, Member of Parliament for St Austell and Newquay: “INVICTUS would be an immensely welcome, long-term partner for and the kind that such a fine aerospace asset as Spaceport Cornwall - with one of the longest runways in the country and dedicated airspace - deserves.” 

Ross Hulbert, Head of Engagement, Spaceport Cornwall: “Being shortlisted for INVICTUS is a significant moment for Spaceport Cornwall and underscores our commitment to advancing the UK’s future flight and hypersonic ambitions. Our world-class facilities, operational versatility, and strategic position within both civilian and military aviation infrastructures place us in a leading role to support this transformational European programme.”

If ultimately selected, Spaceport Cornwall would host INVICTUS operations, integration campaigns and flight activities. This work would build on the spaceport’s growing role in supporting national capability development, including its selection for the UK Ministry of Defence’s Hypersonic Technologies and Capability Development Framework (HTCDF).