Europe has launched a large-scale project to strengthen its digital sovereignty and its position in the space industry: the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite, known as IRIS2. This ambitious program seeks the creation of a constellation of satellites that will offer Safer, faster and more resilient communications for both governments and businesses and citizens of the European Union.
The IRIS2 programme represents a strategic advance in European aerospace policy, positioning itself as the Union's response to other major powers such as the United States and China in terms of satellite communications. With a budget amounting to 11.000 millones de eurosThe project will be developed under a public-private collaboration model involving numerous companies in the sector, including the SpaceRISE consortium.
A new model of collaboration for the aerospace industry
SpaceRISE, formed by Eutelsat, Hispasat and SES, will lead the construction and operation of the IRIS2 satellite constellation over the next 12 years. This consortium combines the resources and experience of leading companies in the space sector, as well as the support of key partners such as Airbus, Deutsche Telekom and Thales Alenia Space. public-private partnership It has been highlighted as one of the major innovations of the project, facilitating the financing and technical development necessary for its success.
Of the 11.000 millones de euros intended for the program, 7.000 billion comes from public funds provided by the European Commission and the European Space Agency (ESA), while the remainder will be funded by private entities. This approach ensures that IRIS2 not only meets the EU's strategic objectives, but also fosters competitiveness and innovation in the space industry.
A multi-orbit constellation for a connected Europe
The IRIS2 constellation will consist of 290 satellites distributed in low (LEO) and medium (MEO) orbits.. This multi-orbit design will ensure Fast and secure communications, as well as the interconnection between satellites to provide uninterrupted servicesThe first launch of these satellites is expected to take place in 2029, while the full constellation should be operational by 2030.
Addition government communications, IRIS2 will provide access to High-speed internet in rural and remote areas, expanding digital connectivity in less-favored areas of the continent. This feature positions it as a competitive system compared to projects such as SpaceX's Starlink, but with a focus more oriented towards Europe's strategic needs.
Hispasat's role: leading the terrestrial infrastructure
Hispasat, the Spanish satellite telecommunications company, will play a crucial role in the IRIS2 project. In addition to being in charge of the design and development of the ground segment, it will be responsible for leading the lowest orbital layer of the system, known as Low LEO, which will operate below the 750 kilometers high. This layer will have Innovative missions that will foster the creation of a more dynamic technological ecosystem in Europe.
Hispasat's investment in the project could reach 600 millones de euros, which will allow it to access capabilities in non-geostationary orbits and complement its current service offering. According to Miguel Ángel Panduro, CEO of the company, IRIS2 represents a historic milestone for Spain and Europe, reinforcing its technological vanguard in the sector.
Resilience and autonomy in a key geopolitical context
The development of IRIS2 responds to the growing need to guarantee Europe's strategic autonomy in an increasingly complex geopolitical context. The programme not only aims to improve communications security, but also to prepare the EU for future technological challenges and ensure sovereign access to space.
During the signing ceremony of the agreement, the European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, stressed that IRIS2 "strengthens Europe's position as a key player in space" by ensuring resilient communications and strengthen the competitiveness of the industry. In addition, ESA will play a crucial role in the technical supervision of the project, driving the innovation and generating employment in the industry.
IRIS2: The European constellation that promises to change satellite communication
A step forward in global connectivity
With the IRIS2 project, Europe is positioning itself as a potential leader in the satellite communications industry, offering a competitive alternative to other global initiatives. The combination of advanced technical infrastructure, international collaboration and a solid financing model makes this programme a key part of Europe's digital future.
IRIS2 will not only strengthen the European Union's technological sovereignty, but will also enhance its ability to respond to the demands of connectivity and security in an increasingly interconnected world. This ambitious project symbolises Europe's commitment to be at the forefront of the space and digital race.