EU Invests $11B in Iris² Satellite Network to Compete with Starlink
The European Union has taken a major step toward digital sovereignty with a landmark €10.6 billion ($11.1 billion) agreement to develop its own satellite internet constellation. The Iris² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite) system aims to launch nearly 300 satellites into low- and medium-Earth orbits by 2030, creating a secure communications alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink network.
Key Details of the Iris² Initiative
- Public-Private Partnership: The project will be 61% publicly funded, with private consortium SpaceRise covering the remainder
- Cost Evolution: Initial €6 billion estimate increased by 76% during negotiations
- Industry Leaders: Consortium includes Eutelsat (merged with OneWeb in 2022) and other European space technology firms
- Strategic Goal: Provide secure government communications and reduce reliance on foreign satellite networks
The Competitive Landscape
While the EU prepares its sovereign constellation, Starlink already maintains significant market advantages:
- Existing Infrastructure: Approximately 6,000 operational satellites in orbit
- Commercial Success: Recently surpassed 4 million subscribers worldwide
- Major Partnerships: Contracts with Royal Caribbean cruise lines and United Airlines for in-flight connectivity
- Future Expansion: Plans for direct-to-phone service via T-Mobile partnership
Why This Matters for Europe
The Iris² program represents more than just technological competition—it’s a strategic move to:
- Enhance Digital Sovereignty: Reduce dependence on non-EU communication systems
- Boost Security: Provide government-grade encrypted communications
- Stimulate Innovation: Drive European space technology development
- Create Jobs: Support the continent’s aerospace industry and workforce
As the space-based internet race intensifies, the EU’s substantial investment signals its commitment to maintaining technological independence in an increasingly competitive orbital economy.
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