The European Union is working to have more control over its internet services with a new program called Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite, or IRIS². This $11 billion satellite project is intended to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink and make Europe less dependent on other countries for digital communication. This comes at a time when the United States is reportedly threatening to cut off Ukraine's access to Starlink unless it agrees to a minerals deal.
The U.S.-Ukraine Starlink Controversy
Reuters recently reported on claims that the U.S. has used Ukraine's need for Starlink as a bargaining tool to secure access to valuable minerals like lithium, uranium, and titanium. After Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy rejected an initial deal, he was warned that Ukraine might soon lose Starlink, which is critical for its military and communication systems.
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“Ukraine runs on Starlink. They consider it their North Star,” a source told Reuters, explaining the importance of the system. Melinda Haring from the Atlantic Council called Starlink a "game changer" since Ukraine depends on it for drone operations and military actions.
Musk denied the report, calling it “false” and claiming, “Reuters is lying.” However, the news agency has stood by its sources. Poland’s deputy prime minister confirmed that his country has been funding Ukraine’s Starlink access and will continue to do so.
Europe Takes Control of Its Own Connectivity
While Ukraine remains vulnerable to Starlink restrictions, the EU is taking steps to ensure it is never in a similar position. The IRIS² program, a 290-satellite constellation, is the EU’s third major satellite initiative after Galileo and Copernicus. The goal is to provide secure, high-speed broadband for governments, businesses, and citizens while reducing reliance on foreign technology.
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“It is a significant step towards Europe’s sovereignty and secure connectivity,” the European Commission stated in December when it signed a contract with the SpaceRISE consortium to develop the system.
Intended to be fully operational by 2030, IRIS² will provide:
- Secure communications for EU governments and defense forces.
- Broadband access for businesses and citizens, including remote areas.
- Reduced dependency on foreign providers like Starlink.
- Support for key industries, including transportation, energy, and banking.
A Public-Private Partnership for the Future
Unlike Starlink, which is fully owned and operated by SpaceX, IRIS² is being built through a public-private partnership. The EU will be the primary customer, while funding will come from both public and private sources. Key industry players include SES, Eutelsat, Hispasat, Airbus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space, and Deutsche Telekom.
By combining Medium Earth Orbit and Low Earth Orbit satellites, IRIS² aims to provide secure, high-speed connectivity across Europe and beyond, including strategic regions like Africa and the Arctic.
Why IRIS² Matters Now More Than Ever
The timing of the IRIS² rollout is not random. With online threats growing and political tensions rising, the EU wants to have more control over its digital systems. This program makes sure that Europe has its own secure way to communicate by satellite so it won't have to rely on other countries, like what's happening with Ukraine and Starlink.
“The EU needs to urgently act in order to ensure guaranteed access in an unrestricted manner without third-party dependencies,” the European Commission said, highlighting the importance of self-reliance in an increasingly unstable world.
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