IRIS² satellites: EU safeguards Europe’s technological sovereignty

With IRIS², Europe has tabled its stake in the future of satellites. Through this new infrastructure, the EU aims to bridge connectivity gaps, provide secure communications to governmental users, and safeguard Europe’s technological sovereignty.

A newly-signed concession contract entrusts the SpaceRISE consortium – led by SES – with the development, deployment, and operation of the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (IRIS²) advanced multi-orbital satellite system that consists of 290 satellites.

Adel Al-Saleh, Chief Executive Officer of SES, commented: “We are delighted to secure this important contract as the European Commission’s trusted partner for this flagship project to realise the ambition of secure, sovereign multi-orbit-based network for EU’s strategic communications autonomy.

“IRIS2 will bring a new level of connectivity for the EU and its citizens in a public private partnership structure which aligns all interests and derisks the development phase with upfront public investment. IRIS2 will be Europe’s network of choice with the EU and Member States being the constellation’s anchor customers.”

Delivering advanced satellite connectivity  

Described as the EU’s third “flagship programme” in the space sector, IRIS² is intended to address critical connectivity needs for Europe.

IRIS² establishes a multi-orbital satellite constellation that leverages the combined benefits of Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to unlock a range of capabilities.  

Among IRIS²’s key features are:  

• Secure connectivity services for EU member states and governmental bodies.
• High-speed broadband for European businesses and citizens, with a focus on rural and remote areas underserved by conventional internet infrastructure.

The system is set to become an essential tool for strengthening EU sovereignty, protecting critical infrastructure, and enabling robust digital communications free from dependency on foreign providers. 

“IRIS² is not just a technological achievement—it is a testament to Europe’s ambition and unity,” remarked Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy.

“This cutting-edge constellation will protect our critical infrastructures, connect our most remote areas, and increase Europe’s strategic autonomy. By partnering with the SpaceRISE consortium, we are demonstrating the power of public-private collaboration to drive innovation and deliver tangible benefits to all Europeans.” 

SpaceRISE consortium: A pan-European collaboration  

The development and implementation of IRIS² will be spearheaded by the SpaceRISE consortium—a collaboration among some of Europe’s foremost satellite network operators and equipment providers. 

The consortium includes SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat, operating in tandem with an extensive network of subcontractors across the European satellite and telecoms sector.

Notable partners in the project include:  

• Thales Alenia Space
• OHB SE 
• Airbus Defence and Space
• Telespazio
• Deutsche Telekom
• Orange  
• Hisdesat 
• Thales SIX  

The Commission has emphasised that this initiative reflects a commitment to fostering innovation and competition, ensuring that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and fresh market entrants have opportunities to engage in the supply chain. The inclusion of a diverse network of collaborators is designed to maximise the economic and technological benefits delivered by IRIS².  

The IRIS² programme is being implemented through a 12-year public-private partnership framework, solidifying the economic and operational foundations necessary for the satellite system to succeed. Under this model, the initiative will unite the resources of European institutions and private industry to achieve its ambitious objectives.  

Key elements of the partnership include: 

• The EU as an anchor customer for the services provided by the IRIS² system.  
• Shared investment funding, with contributions from the European Union, the European Space Agency (ESA), and SpaceRISE consortium members.  

To ensure the programme’s sustainability, the Commission has committed to initial budgetary allocations under its current Multiannual Financial Framework. As the programme progresses, future funding beyond 2027 will rely on successor programmes approved by the European Parliament and the Council, alongside the availability of necessary resources.

IRIS² satellites aim to strengthen Europe

IRIS² is more than just a technological development—it represents a strategic investment in Europe’s digital future. By deploying advanced satellite capabilities, the EU seeks not only to address today’s connectivity challenges but to establish itself as a global leader in secure and resilient networks capable of adapting to emerging threats.  

Andrius Kubilius, Commissioner for Defence and Space, commented: “Today we 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.”  

Championing secure connectivity across government, businesses, and private users, IRIS² aligns with a broader ambition of technological and strategic independence for the EU. From remote rural broadband to guaranteed secure government communications, the programme is set to deliver near-universal benefits across industries and communities alike.

As geopolitical considerations continue to heighten the importance of technological sovereignty and secure communications, the IRIS² programme has arrived at a pivotal time. Scheduled to provide full services by 2030, the IRIS² system is primed to become a crucial part of Europe’s digital future at a time when secure and reliable connectivity has never been more vital.

By blending public and private resources, fostering innovative partnerships across numerous industries, and committing to inclusivity from SMEs to major corporations, the EU is laying strong foundations for a more resilient network infrastructure.  

See also: AST SpaceMobile and Vodafone expand satellite cellular network agreement

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Tags: connectivity, eu, europe, european commission, european union, government, IRIS², Networks, rural, satellites, Security