European Union wants to create its own satellite communications network IRIS² at a cost of €6 billion
In five years, the European Union could have its own satellite communications network. It will be called Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnection and Security by Satellites (IRIS2).
Here's What We Know
The telecommunications satellite network should be in place by 2027. The European Parliament and EU member states are ready to approve the project, the cost of which is estimated at €6 billion.
The idea of space communications is relatively recent. In January 2022, the European Union announced plans to create a network. The project began to receive more attention after russia invaded Ukraine.
The goal of IRIS2 is to provide European Union government agencies and critical infrastructure facilities with secure Internet access in extreme situations. For example, in case of natural disasters. The European Parliament stated that the autonomy and sovereignty of the EU will be ensured after the implementation of the project.
The cost of IRIS2 will total €6 billion, with €2.4 billion earmarked from the EU budget. The remaining €3.6 billion will be invested by private companies and the European Space Agency (ESA).