Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – EU Commission signed a concession contract with the SpaceRISE consortium for the IRIS² satellite system, enhancing EU security and connectivity.
The European Commission has inked the concession agreement for the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (IRIS²) with the SpaceRISE consortium. , It is a multi-orbital constellation of 290 satellites. According to the commission, the collaboration will deploy, develop and manage the European Union’s new system. It is an effective step towards the EU’s secure connectivity and sovereignty.
How will IRIS² enhance the EU’s satellite security and connectivity?
Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (IRIS²) illustrates the European Union’s third flagship agenda, created to address demanding long-term challenges in safety, security and resilience. By presenting advanced connectivity assistance to governmental users and facilitating connectivity gaps across the European Union, IRIS² underpins Europe’s strategic independence and technological oversight.
The SpaceRISE consortium, tasked with the undertaking of this ambitious scheme, includes three leading European satellite network operators— Eutelsat SA, SES SA and Hispasat S.A.—backed by a core group of European subcontractors from the satcom ecosystem. Pivotal associates include OHB, Airbus Defence Thales Alenia Space and Space, Orange, Hisdesat Telespazio, Deutsche Telekom, and Thales SIX.
The 12-year concession contract demonstrates a strong public-private partnership to help both governmental and commercial connectivity services by 2030. With IRIS², the European Union is hardening its position as a global authority in ensuring resilience in the face of emerging challenges and secure satellite connectivity.
