With a multi-orbit architecture, interoperable with terrestrial networks, IRIS² is intended to improve European connectivity infrastructures – for governments, businesses and people – in terms of security and resilience.
The European Commission had previously issued a call for tender, and the open consortium will be governed by the five companies Airbus Defence and Space, Eutelsat, Hispasat, SES and Thales Alenia Space.
In a statement, the companies write:
“This partnership will set up an integrated best-in-class European space and telecoms team across these companies to leverage the expertise and capabilities in the field of secure satellite communications solutions. The consortium will encourage start-ups, mid-Caps and SMEs to join the partnership, resulting in a more innovative and competitive European space sector where new business models will emerge.”
The consortium aims for “the delivery of sovereign, secure and resilient government services”, to better enable the EU’s strategic autonomy.
You can read more about IRIS² here.
Image: SES
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