European Union approves IRIS2 secure satellite constellation

The European Union has officially approved the launch of IRIS2, an ambitious secure satellite communications constellation designed to bolster European strategic autonomy. The implementation agreement was signed between the European Commission, the European Space Agency, and the SpaceRISE consortium, which includes Hispasat, Eutelsat, and SES.

The project involves a total investment of 15.6 billion euros, with 4 billion euros provided by the private consortium and the remainder from public funds. The reinforced constellation is planned to consist of 348 satellites: 330 in low Earth orbit (LEO) and 18 in medium Earth orbit (MEO). This expansion includes an additional 66 satellites in LEO compared to previous plans.

Designed to provide secure communications for government, defense, and security sectors, IRIS2 aims to reduce dependence on external providers like Starlink and Amazon. Hispasat has been designated as the primary contractor for the ground infrastructure, a role valued at over 1.6 billion euros. The first launches are scheduled to begin by 2029, with full operational capability expected by 2030.