April 14, 2025
Ineo E&S and Cynogarde are securing the Guiana Space Center: a major contract for the security of the facilities and launch sites for Ariane 6 and Vega-C.
By addressing the challenges posed by satellite constellations and the evolving scope of institutional and private space missions, the Guiana Space Center (CSG) is ushering in a new era in space launches. To support this momentum, the National Center for Space Studies (CNES) has entrusted the Cérium consortium—comprising Ineo E&S, a division of Equans France, and Cynogarde—with the security and surveillance of the European Spaceport for the next ten years.
A sensitive site under heavy security
The CSG is located 60 km from Cayenne and covers an area of 660 km². It hosts 1,450 people daily—employees of 40 different companies, including 250 CNES employees.
A true center of excellence, it brings together specialized infrastructure such as the Ariane 6 and Vega-C rocket launch sites, as well as facilities dedicated to the preparation of communications, Earth observation, and defense satellites, and to the production of propellants.
Due to its strategic importance and international influence, the site faces various threats: intrusions, industrial espionage, and illegal activities in French Guiana.
Its protection relies on a security system that combines human surveillance with advanced technologies.
Since January, Ineo E&S, an expert in protecting sensitive sites, has been responsible for maintenance and supervision of the site’s security systems, while Cynogarde is responsible for physical surveillance. The consortium coordinates daily with CNES, local authorities, and military forces.
A Human Technological Shield
Open space de la Maison de l’Innovation à Nantes
Crédit photo : Equans France
To address these challenges, Ineo E&S manages all security infrastructure, from equipment operation to access control and fire safety.
A video surveillance network provides continuous coverage of the entire center and is connected to a modern command center that enables real-time analysis and an immediate response in the event of an incident.
The perimeter is also protected by kilometers of fencing equipped with smart sensors, capable of detecting any attempted intrusion.
Access management, with nearly 20,000 personalized badges issued each year, ensures a balance between infrastructure security and the smooth running of space operations.
The reliability and availability of the equipment are ensured through ongoing preventive and corrective maintenance.
“With this contract at the Guiana Space Center, Equans is strengthening its commitment to French Guiana, a region where our expertise is fully realized. Securing critical infrastructure with Ineo E&S; maintaining the operational readiness of French Navy patrol boats and the HF communications network through CNN MCO and INEO Défense. And many other areas of expertise, including HVAC and refrigeration solutions with Equans Belgium, as well as the HVAC and plumbing work for the future Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni Judicial Complex by Axima… This momentum reflects our commitment to establishing a lasting presence in French Guiana and strengthening our position there in strategic sectors, including aerospace! ” explains Hervé Ridoux, President of Ineo E&S and Director of Defense, Marine, Aviation, and Aerospace Markets.
