EU builds 11.1 billion USD satellite system to compete with Starlink

With a multi-orbit network of nearly 300 satellites, Iris2 aims to compete with US satellite Internet service providers such as SpaceX’s Starlink or Amazon’s Kuiper project. “This advanced system will protect our critical infrastructure, connect the most remote regions and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy,” said the vice president of the European Commission (EC). ) Henna Virkkunen said.

The Iris2 system, developed in the form of a public-private partnership (PPP), is expected to serve both government and private customers. With an estimated cost of 10.6 billion euros ($11.1 billion), Iris2 will ensure secure communications for military, defense and diplomatic purposes. Surveillance, connectivity in disaster areas and commercial broadband access are other potential applications of this system.

EU Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius hailed the signing on December 16 as the beginning of the vision of a stronger, more connected and more resilient Europe. “Iris2 demonstrates the EU’s determination and commitment to strengthening Europe’s global position in space, both in terms of security and competitiveness, bringing benefits to governments, businesses and citizens,” Kubilius speak.

Iris2 is the EU’s third largest space project, after the Galileo satellite navigation system and the Copernicus Earth monitoring satellite system. More than half of the project’s cost will be paid by the EU, with 4.1 billion euros in private investment and 550 million euros from the European Space Agency (ESA).

The market for high-speed spatial connectivity, especially useful for remote areas, is becoming extremely competitive. Earlier this year, SpaceX announced it had put more than 6,000 Starlink satellites into orbit, serving 2.6 million customers.

Although Iris2 has a smaller number of satellites, the multi-orbit design helps the system achieve performance equivalent to a fleet of about 1,000 Starlink satellites, according to the EU. Iris2’s ground infrastructure will be located entirely in Europe with control centers in Luxembourg, France, and Italy. The system is expected to begin full operations in 2030.