Europe expands its Starlink rival to 348 satellites as IRIS² moves into implementation — €15.6 billion network will boost EU government capacity by 60%, with launches starting in 2029
According to the Commission, the revised architecture will provide 60% more secure governmental communications capacity within the EU and 54% more globally. The accelerated timeline and larger constellation have pushed that figure higher, with the consortium's partners now putting total planned investment above €15.6 billion ($18.03 billion), drawn from the EU budget for 2028–2034, ESA, the consortium partners, and member states. Several countries have already committed, with Poland and Hungary pledging €656 million ($758 million) and €500 million ($578 million), respectively, while Spain has announced between €1.6 and €2 billion ($1.85–2.31 billion).
- ▪According to the Commission, the revised architecture will provide 60% more secure governmental communications capacity within the EU and 54% more globally.
- ▪The accelerated timeline and larger constellation have pushed that figure higher, with the consortium's partners now putting total planned investment above €15.6 billion ($18.03 billion), drawn from the EU budget for 2028–2034, ESA, the con
- ▪Several countries have already committed, with Poland and Hungary pledging €656 million ($758 million) and €500 million ($578 million), respectively, while Spain has announced between €1.6 and €2 billion ($1.85–2.31 billion).
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| Publication time | Mon, 10 Aug 2026 09:30:00 +0000 |
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Tech Industry Space Europe expands its Starlink rival to 348 satellites as IRIS² moves into implementation — €15.6 billion network will boost EU government capacity by 60%, with launches starting in 2029 News By Etiido Uko Published 10 August 2026 66 new satellites are earmarked for defense, security, and emergency services, When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: ESA) Share Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Email Share this article Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter The European Commission and the SpaceRISE consortium signed an implementation agreement on Friday, August 7, to roll out Europe’s IRIS² satellite…
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