A European space shuttle project, led by the French company Dassault and its German partner, is set to be unveiled at a summit in Paris. The initiative aims to reduce Europe's reliance on American and Russian space programs, which have long been the primary means for launching astronauts and satellites. The shuttle, named Vortex, is described as a versatile spacecraft that can function as an airplane, shuttle, and spacecraft. It is designed to navigate in low Earth orbit, resupply the International Space Station, deploy small satellites, and conduct experiments in microgravity. The Vortex can be launched by an Ariane 6 rocket and is capable of landing like an airplane for quick reuse, which could significantly reduce the cost of space missions. According to Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault, the project has attracted interest from several countries, and the company is prepared to take on the challenge of developing this ambitious space initiative. Vortex also has a military purpose, including the potential to neutralize threatening satellites with a laser. Several versions of the shuttle are under study, with the heaviest version potentially capable of carrying a crew. This versatility makes the Vortex not only a tool for scientific exploration but also a strategic asset for national security. Jean-Luc Dauvergne, a journalist from Ciel & Espace, noted that Europeans currently lack the capability to send humans into space and that reliance on the Russians and Americans could become increasingly complicated, especially as geopolitical tensions rise. He emphasized the need for Europe to develop its own space capabilities to maintain independence and ensure access to space for scientific and commercial purposes. The first flight of a Vortex demonstrator is planned for 2028, which could mark the beginning of a new era for European space exploration. The project has drawn attention from industry representatives from France, Germany, and Spain, who gathered at the summit to discuss the future of the initiative. If successful, the Vortex could position Europe as a major player in space exploration and satellite technology, reducing its dependence on other nations and opening new opportunities for scientific research and commercial ventures.