This multi-orbital constellation will comprise 290 satellites operating in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO). IRIS² is set to become the European Union’s third flagship space programme, addressing vital challenges in security, safety, and connectivity for governments, businesses, and citizens alike.
IRIS² is designed to enhance Europe’s resilience and ensure seamless connectivity for Member States. The system will offer secure communications for governmental users and provide high-speed broadband to private entities and underserved areas across Europe. As a testament to Europe’s innovation in space technology, IRIS² will help bridge existing connectivity gaps while safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, emphasised the programme’s ambition, stating: “IRIS² is not just a technological achievement—it is a testament to Europe’s ambition and unity. This cutting-edge constellation will protect our critical infrastructures, connect our most remote areas and increase Europe’s strategic autonomy.”
The SpaceRISE consortium has been chosen to lead this ambitious project, uniting major European satellite operators SES SA, Eutelsat SA, and Hispasat S.A. A robust network of subcontractors, including Thales Alenia Space, Airbus Defence and Space, OHB, and Deutsche Telekom, will contribute expertise, ensuring innovation and inclusivity in the European satellite market.
This collaboration highlights the EU’s commitment to fostering opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and new market entrants within the satellite communications ecosystem. Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius underscored the programme’s broader goals, saying: “Today we are not just launching a satellite project. We are launching a vision—a vision of a stronger, more connected, and more resilient Europe.”
IRIS² will be delivered under a 12-year public-private partnership model, with the European Union as the anchor customer. The programme will be funded through a mix of EU and European Space Agency (ESA) public investments, alongside private contributions from the SpaceRISE consortium. Initial financing will be covered under the EU’s current multiannual financial framework, with further funding dependent on future parliamentary and Council approvals.
The IRIS² constellation is expected to be operational by 2030, marking a significant milestone in Europe’s technological leadership. As global challenges in security and connectivity grow, the programme ensures Europe’s resilience in an increasingly digitalised and interconnected world.
IRIS² represents more than a technological feat—it is a bold step towards Europe’s strategic autonomy and leadership in secure satellite connectivity. By bridging gaps in access, fostering innovation, and enhancing resilience, the programme solidifies the EU’s global position in space technology.
As Commissioner Kubilius aptly summarised, “IRIS² demonstrates the Union’s resolve and commitment to strengthening Europe’s space global posture both in terms of security and competitiveness to the benefit of our governments, businesses, and citizens.”
Source: European Commission.
