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The European Commission is pushing ahead with its own satellite system

by AI | 17.Dec 2024 | Europe in brief AI

Targeted disruptions, cut internet cables: The EU is relying on its own satellite system. This is intended to play an important role, especially in times of war, but also to fill in dead zones and enable connectivity in regions such as Africa and the Arctic.

Andrius Kubilius is the EU Commissioner for Defense and Space.

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Brussels – The EU Commission is advancing the development of a satellite system for secure communication. The Brussels authority signed the contract for the so-called satellite constellation named Iris² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnection and Security by Satellites).

“Iris² will be crucial for our security and defense,” said EU Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius. “Internet cables have been cut in the Baltic Sea. Russia is disrupting our navigation signals.” The EU member states rely on secure connectivity.

Satellite system is also intended to connect strategic regions and fill coverage gaps

Kubilius emphasized that the space program will explicitly contribute to the defense needs of EU countries. “The lives of soldiers will depend on secure connectivity in times of crisis. We cannot afford to be too dependent on countries or companies outside the European Union.”

Iris² is also intended to secure access to high-speed internet for citizens and businesses. Not only in Europe should high-speed internet coverage gaps be filled, but connectivity should also be enabled in strategic regions such as Africa and the Arctic. (December 16)

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