Europe partners with SpaceRISE to launch 290 satellite network by 2030

In December 2023, the European Union announced the development of a satellite communication system known as IRIS², aiming to enhance secure connectivity across Europe and in strategic regions. This initiative comes as a response to recent threats, including internet cable disruptions in the Baltic Sea and navigation signal interferences reportedly caused by Russia. The need for a reliable and autonomous communication system has become critical for EU member states, especially in defense contexts where connectivity can impact the safety and effectiveness of military operations. The contract for IRIS² was signed as part of a public-private partnership with the SpaceRISE consortium, which includes several notable satellite network operators in Europe. As envisioned, IRIS² will consist of 290 communication satellites set to be operational by 2030, filling connectivity gaps in underserved areas, including parts of Africa and the Arctic. The project highlights the EU's efforts to reduce dependency on non-EU companies and bolster internal security through robust communication infrastructure, further promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors for innovative solutions.