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Arianespace and Astrium Wednesday said they signed an initial agreement to begin the production of 18 additional Ariane 5 ECA launchers, a deal worth more than 400 million euros.

MAIN FACTS:

- As part of this agreement, Arianespace has ordered from Astrium long-lead items and the start of production activities for the 18 additional launchers. These items and the first production activities are valued at more than 400 million euros.

- Astrium and Arianespace plan to sign the full production contract for the additional launchers before the end of 2013.

- These additional 18 Ariane 5s should be launched from 2017 onwards, following on from the 35 launchers ordered in 2009.

- Astrium is the space technology division of European Aeronautic Defence & Space Co. (EAD.FR)

-Write to Ruth Bender at ruth.bender@wsj.com

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