It was signed on concession contract from the European Commission. The decisive step, therefore, has been taken for the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (IRIS²). It’s one constellation of 290 satelliteswhose responsibility will fall under the management of the SpaceRISE consortium. This is it EU response to Starlink on Elon Musk.
The future of the internet in Europe
The European Union has taken a decisive step towards connectivity sovereignty in the old continent. Over the next few years, therefore, the entire internet sector could change radically. To date IRIS² represents the third flagship program in the EU aerospace sector, in terms of investment importance. It is only behind the Galileo navigation system and the Copernicus observation network.
As mentioned, 290 satellites will be active, making up one multi-orbital constellation. The system will allow you to fill all connectivity gaps currently present in Europe. At the same time, beyond the services guaranteed to users, we will proceed to reach out to the various government systems, which will be able to take advantage of advanced structures.
IRIS² will exploit the advantages deriving both from satellites in medium earth orbit (MEO) as much as from those in low earth orbit (LEO). All in order to obtain connectivity services that are always safe for all member states.
How it will work
If Starlink is already here and represents a very valid alternative, especially for those who live in areas characterized by poor connectivityIRIS²will take a while to wait, understandably. In fact, it is a look into the future, however close it may be. However, a necessary step for the European Union.
The SpaceRISE consortium boasts three European satellite network operators:
Operators who will be supported by a central team of European subcontractors, part of the satcom ecosystem. As regards the main partners, we find: Thales Alenia Space, OHB, Airbus Defense and Space, Telespazio, Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Hisdesat and Thales SIX.
Il supply contract initialed is valid for 12 years and turns it look to 2030. Here is the date by which connectivity services must be enabled for both government bodies and commercial environments. All for an overall budget of 10.6 billion euros.
Here are the words of Andrius KubiliusCommissioner for Defense and Space: “Today we are not just launching a satellite project. This is a vision of a stronger, more connected and more resilient Europe. IRIS² demonstrates the Union’s determination and commitment to strengthening Europe’s global space position, both in terms of security and competitiveness, for the benefit of our governments, our businesses and our citizens.”
A fundamental and necessary step, of course, which however seems to arrive a little late. Who can say, in fact, what the scenario of satellite connectivity will be in 2030. Starlink, moreover, continues to evolve and, in Italy itself, Elon Musk is working to make new agreements. To date, therefore, the Scrooge McDuck of tech does not say he is worried.
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