Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 1 hr ago
EU pushes ahead with Iris² satellite network as Starlink reliance raises concerns
Ukrainian units reported disruptions to Starlink-linked drone controls, including delayed commands and gaps in live video.
The problems affected military operations, but there is no official confirmation that the US government restricted access.
The episode highlighted how reliance on satellite services can leave armed forces vulnerable to decisions made by a provider or government.
The EU is building Iris² as a European-controlled alternative to Starlink, with several European satellite companies involved.
The EU agreed to the programme in 2024, and its planned investment has since grown to more than €15.6 billion.
Public funds are expected to provide €11.6 billion, with industry partners contributing up to €4 billion.
Iris² satellites are planned to be in orbit in 2029, according to the current schedule.
The EU is advancing Iris², a satellite network intended to provide a European alternative to Starlink.
Concerns about reliance on Starlink have grown after disruptions affected Ukrainian drone operations.
The EU and the SpaceRISE consortium agreed in August to expand Iris² and move into implementation.
The planned investment has risen to more than €15.6 billion, with satellites expected in orbit in 2029.
The network is intended to meet EU security needs and give Europe greater control over its satellite communications.
- Who
- The European Union and the SpaceRISE consortium are developing Iris².
- What
- They are advancing a satellite network intended as a European alternative to Starlink.
- When
- The EU decided to create the network in 2024; an agreement to expand it was signed in August. Satellites are expected in orbit in 2029.
- Where
- The network is being developed for the European Union.
- Why
- Concerns about dependence on satellite services controlled by others have grown after problems with Starlink affected Ukrainian military operations.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The EU decided to develop Iris² as a broader European satellite network.
The original concession contract set out 290 satellites and €10.55 billion in investment.
The European Commission and SpaceRISE signed an agreement to expand the programme and begin implementation.
The satellites are expected to be in orbit.
- Planned investment
- More than €15.6 billion
- Public funding
- €11.6 billion from the European Commission and ESA
- Industry contribution
- Up to €4 billion
- Original plan
- 290 satellites and €10.55 billion
- Expected deployment
- 2029