EU Commits €10.6 Billion to 300-Satellite IRIS² Constellation, Rivaling Starlink by 2030

Dec 16, 2024, 12:01 PM

The European Union has signed a €10.6 billion contract to build IRIS², a 300-satellite constellation aiming to rival Elon Musk's Starlink by providing secure, high-speed internet connectivity. This public-private partnership involves the SpaceRise consortium and telecom operators, with the European Space Agency (ESA) supporting its development. IRIS² is expected to enhance Europe's sovereignty, safety, and secure communication systems, particularly for security and defense applications. The contract was signed on December 16, 2024, in Brussels, marking Europe's most ambitious space program in a decade. Operations are scheduled to begin in 2030.