European Satellite Internet Project IRIS² Lifts Off
European Commission and SpaceRISE sign contract in Brussels
An agreement has been signed between the European Commission, ESA and SpaceRISE ... a consortium comprised by Eutelsat, Hispasat and SES ... that will see the consortium design, deliver and operate the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (IRIS²) for a period of 12 years. The contract was signed today in a ceremony at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels.
"(W)e are not just launching a satellite project. We are launching a vision - a vision of a stronger, more connected, and more resilient Europe."
Andrius Kubilius, Commissioner for Defense and Space
With the network of 290 new Low Earth Orbit and Medium Earth Orbit satellites expected to provide services by the beginning of 2030, the IRIS² constellation of satellites for a resilient, interconnected and secure Europe is an EU flagship initiative. IRIS² will be the preferred and trusted network for Europe in delivering secure and reliable high-performance communication solutions to the EU and its Member States as well as high-speed broadband connectivity for European citizens, governmental authorities and businesses, playing a transformative role in reinforcing Europe’s digital sovereignty, and low-latency connectivity.
Under the agreement with SpaceRISE, the project will be backed by €6.5 billion (≈$6.83 billion) of public funds representing nearly 60% of the total project costs – comprising funding from the European Commission, EU Member States, the European Space Agency and private financing from the consortium members. The SpaceRISE consortium will lead the wider European space industry to accelerate innovation throughout the supply chain, enhancing Europe's leadership and competitiveness in the space sector.
Additionally, the Public-private Partnership (PPP) model in the form of Concession will unite public and commercial interests in an unprecedented way, paving the way for continuous implementation of innovative solutions and platforms for the future.
"(W)e are not just launching a satellite project. We are launching a vision - a vision of a stronger, more connected, and more resilient Europe. IRIS² demonstrates the Union’s resolve and commitment to strengthening Europe’s space global posture both in terms of security and competitiveness to the benefit of our governments, businesses and citizens,” said Andrius Kubilius, Commissioner for Defense and Space.
“In an increasingly complex geopolitical world, ensuring resilient, secure and fast governmental communications is essential. ESA will play a crucial role in the technical implementation of the IRIS2 program. ESA’s excellence will foster innovation in the European space industry, boost European competitiveness, create high-skill jobs and attract talents to Europe. The Commission’s trust in ESA to oversee the development of the constellation and its ground infrastructure speaks volumes of ESA’s successful track record in the delivery of European flagship programs. ESA is ready to deliver again, for Europe and its citizens,” said Josef Aschbacher, ESA’s Director General.
SpaceRISE which stands for Space Consortium for a Resilient, Interconnected and Secure Europe is dedicated to fostering a resilient, interconnected, and secure Europe through space innovation. The total cost for the full duration of the 12-year concession contract amounts to €10.6 billion (≈$10.7 billion). This will be funded by the EU for €6 billion (≈$6.3 billion), over three financial perspectives, by ESA for €550 million (≈$578.05million) and by the private sector for over €4 billion (≈$4.2 billion).