EU begins work on major satellite network
In response to global satellite competition, the EU has initiated a €10.6 billion project to build its own secure satellite network, aiming to bolster communications and strengthen digital independence.

The European Union has officially launched the development of its IRIS² satellite constellation, a €10.6 billion initiative designed to enhance secure governmental communications and secure Europe’s digital independence. The project, involving over 280 satellites, is set to provide encrypted services for EU governments while also supporting new commercial opportunities.
Amid rising concerns about digital sovereignty and the rapid expansion of competing networks like Elon Musk’s Starlink, IRIS² marks the EU’s third major space programme after Galileo and Copernicus. Despite initial setbacks, including disputes over costs and industrial work shares, the European Space Agency expects the first launch by mid-2029 and full deployment by the end of 2030.
The project’s development has not been without challenges. Europe’s leading satellite manufacturers, Airbus and Thales Alenia Space, withdrew from the main consortium due to financial concerns but remain involved as suppliers. IRIS² aims to position Europe as a competitive force in a market currently dominated by Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper network.