EU adopts new satellite system for secure Internet

The EU agrees on its own satellite system called IRIS2. It aims to ensure an independent and secure Internet. In addition, 2.4 billion euros will flow into the new project.

“This is historic.” With these words, EU Commissioner Thierry Breton proclaimed Twitterthat the European Union will add a new and thus third component to its portfolio of strategic space infrastructures.

IRIS2: satellite system to ensure safe internet in the EU

Europe’s new infrastructure for reliability, networking and security through satellites is the official name press release according to IRIS2.

Accordingly, on Thursday evening, November 17, 2022, the EU Commission, the European Council and the EU Parliament agreed on the structure of the new satellite constellation.

The EU is investing 2.4 billion euros in the new satellite system

The EU is providing a total budget of 2.4 billion euros for the development of IRIS2. In addition, ESA and future private investors will also participate in the project.

The aim is also to reduce the risk of space overload. The new constellation will thus bring secure European connectivity for everyone, according to Breton.

Secure internet for citizens and businesses

IRIS2 is intended to guarantee citizens and companies secure access to fast Internet in the future. This is intended to close dead spots on high-speed Internet not only in Europe.

IRIS² will provide connectivity throughout the constellation’s north-south orbits, including areas currently lacking broadband internet, as well as all of Africa.

In addition, the new satellite constellation will focus on government services, including defense applications. The project will be at the cutting edge of technology that will give Europe a head start. Breton cites quantum encryption as an example.

The EU wants to become independent with the IRIS2 satellite system

The program is also an important step towards more strategic autonomy in Europe, according to CSU MEPs Angelica Niebler.

So far, satellite communication has been completely dependent on third countries or private companies. According to Niebler, that was shown by the war in Ukraine. With IRIS2, that should change in the future.

IRIS2 is Europe’s third pillar in space – alongside Galileo and Copernicus, which are used for satellite positioning and earth observation.

The project is to be implemented by 2027

The project reinforces Europe’s role as a true space power with a clear purpose and direction. The EU wants to start implementation immediately. Breton also writes:

The effort and energy expended at European level to push this initiative forward at record pace also reflects, I believe, the importance of IRIS2 in an increasingly competitive geostrategic environment.

From 2027 the new services should be fully operational. Before that, however, the agreement still has to be formally confirmed by the EU Parliament and the states. However, this is considered a mere formality.

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