Richard Parks The European Union has signed contracts to launch IRIS², a secure satellite constellation for defence and communication. The €11 billion project will deploy 290 satellites by 2030.
The European Commission partnered with SES SA, Eutelsat SA, and Hispasat S.A. Satellite launches are scheduled to start in 2029.
Strengthening Europe’s Secure Communication
IRIS² aims to provide secure connectivity for EU governments, businesses, and citizens. Andrius Kubilius, Defence and Space Commissioner, called this a “milestone for Europe’s defence.”
“Our space programme now directly supports member states’ defence needs,” Kubilius said. He cited threats like attacks on underwater cables and Russian jamming in the Baltic Sea. IRIS² ensures connectivity even in hostile conditions.
ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher added that the constellation will improve Europe’s resilience, autonomy, and competitiveness.
Funding and Launch Plans
The EU budget will contribute €6 billion, with €2 billion allocated by 2027. ESA will provide €0.55 billion, and private investors will add €4.1 billion.
The design phase lasts one year, followed by development and testing through 2028. Satellite deployment will begin in 2029 with up to 13 Ariane 6 launches. Services will be fully operational by 2030.
Five nations—France, Italy, Luxembourg, Greece, and Spain—will start sharing satellite capacity under GovSatcom by 2025. Services from this programme will roll out by the end of 2027.
The system’s multi-orbital approach includes satellites at 8,000 km, 1,200 km, and between 450-750 km. This structure ensures global coverage and efficient data transfer through ground stations in Luxembourg, France, and Italy.
International Cooperation Opportunities
Third countries can join as paying customers or full members with EU approval. Norway and Iceland already received waivers. Japan, South Korea, Australia, and several African nations have shown interest in IRIS² services.