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Europe Finalizes Plans For Its 'Sovereign' Starlink Competitor
Engadget • • business
Key Points:
- The European Commission has finalized an implementation plan for the EU's sovereign IRIS² satellite broadband service, moving from planning to full-scale deployment.
- An agreement was signed with European manufacturers, the European Space Agency (ESA), and other partners to confirm the satellite constellation design, construction, ground infrastructure, and launch services.
- The IRIS² constellation will now include 348 satellites, 66 more than originally planned, enhancing capabilities for defense, security, and emergency services.
- The expanded satellite network is expected to increase secure governmental capacity by 60% within the EU and 54% globally, boosting Europe's ability to support critical missions during crises.
- The first IRIS² satellites are scheduled for launch in 2029, with services being progressively deployed from the same year.
