IRIS²: a new frontier in the European space programme

This satellite system will play a crucial role in transforming the defence and security field, improving border and maritime surveillance, crisis management such as humanitarian aid, and protection of essential communications and infrastructure, including secure connections for European embassies. In addition, the framework will enhance response capabilities in maritime emergencies, force deployment, and EU external operations, as well as law enforcement interventions, ensuring greater security across Europe. In this way, IRIS² could foster greater military interoperability among EU member states, improving coordination and cohesion in defence and security operations. Therefore, this satellite constellation will play a pivotal role in managing military communication, replicating, to some extent, the American SpaceX’s Starshield system.

The goal of IRIS² is not only to ensure secure satellite communication and connectivity but also to provide enhanced broadband deployment to governments, private businesses and individuals across Europe. Moreover, it aims to promote European strategic space autonomy in an increasingly interconnected yet volatile global landscape. In an era where space security is vital for the continent’s defence and security, this project strengthens the EU’s space capabilities by reducing dependence on external infrastructure and enhancing its resilience to emerging threats to European security. In this regard, the newly designated Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, stated that the launch of IRIS² represents not only a deployment of satellites but a strategic vision aimed at strengthening, connecting and enhancing Europe’s resilience. Thus, the project underscores the EU’s commitment to strengthen its role as a space actor in a heated geopolitical competition, highlighting its determination to ensure space autonomy and security. Therefore, for Kubilius, this move has both an industrial nature, such as the development and protection of European space infrastructure, and a strategic nature, intending to simultaneously stimulate innovation and technological progress, both of which are crucial for sustaining European competitiveness on a global scale.

Source: Finabel – The European Land Force Commanders Organisation.