The European Union's ambitious satellite internet constellation, Iris², has moved a step closer to becoming a reality. The project, designed to offer secure and high-speed broadband across the continent, is a direct European answer to SpaceX's Starlink system.
Iris², which stands for Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite, is a multi-orbit constellation that will combine satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO). This hybrid approach is intended to ensure robust coverage, including in remote and underserved areas, while also providing resilient connectivity for government and critical infrastructure users.
A strategic European priority
The project is not just about commercial broadband. It is a cornerstone of the EU's digital and strategic autonomy agenda. By developing its own satellite infrastructure, Brussels aims to reduce dependence on non-European providers for secure communications, a concern that has grown amid geopolitical tensions and the increasing importance of space-based services.
The European Commission has been pushing for Iris² as part of its broader Space Strategy for Europe. The constellation is expected to support a range of applications, from maritime and aviation connectivity to disaster response and secure government communications. It also aligns with the EU's Green Deal objectives, as the system is designed to be energy-efficient and to support environmental monitoring.
According to recent statements from the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Commission, the project has passed a critical design review, clearing the way for the next phase of development. This milestone brings the launch of the first satellites closer, with an initial deployment expected within the next few years.
The consortium behind Iris², led by European satellite operators and manufacturers, includes major players such as Eutelsat, SES, and Hispasat, along with a host of smaller suppliers across the EU. This industrial base is seen as a key advantage, ensuring that the project generates jobs and technological know-how within Europe.
However, the project has faced challenges, including budget overruns and delays. The total cost is estimated at around €6 billion, with funding coming from the EU budget, ESA, and private investors. Critics have questioned the viability of the project, given the rapid expansion of Starlink and other commercial constellations. But supporters argue that Iris²'s focus on security and resilience justifies the investment.
As the EU moves forward, the successful deployment of Iris² will be a test of its ability to deliver large-scale technological projects. It also underscores the bloc's determination to play a leading role in the new space economy. For European citizens, the promise is a more connected and secure continent, with services that are not dependent on foreign infrastructure.
For more on Europe's digital ambitions, see our morning briefing from August 9. The progress of Iris² is a reminder that the EU is actively shaping its technological future, even as it navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape.
