Europe Gets Its Starlink Rival, Expands IRIS Satellite Constellation
The European Commission has expanded the IRIS2 satellite constellation project by adding 66 satellites to compete with Starlink. This secure broadband network aims to provide autonomous connectivity for European government, defense, and emergency services starting in 2029.
Why it matters
This represents a strategic move by the EU to achieve digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on non-European satellite internet providers for critical infrastructure.
Europe's plans for its own satellite broadband network have entered the next stage, with the European Commission signing an agreement to expand the IRIS2 constellation. The deal adds 66 satellites to the programme, taking its main constellation to 348 satellites and moving the project from the planning stage towards full-scale deployment.The European Commission signed the implementation agreement with the SpaceRISE consortium on August 7, with support from the European Space Agency (ESA).IRIS2, a response to Starlink and other satellite internet services, is being developed as a secure and reliable connectivity network for European governments, defence and security forces, and emergency services. The constellation will have 348 satellites, including 330 in low Earth orbit and 18 in medium Earth orbit, along with additional optional elements for specific missions.The European Union's new flagship satellite constellation is intended to support critical operations, including emergencies and other situations where secure communications are required.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in