President von der Leyen sets out space ambition for Europe
Today at the International Space Summit in Paris, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen set out priorities for action to make Europe more resilient in the space sector: strengthening Iris² to boost Europe’s strategic autonomy in space; building a powerful and competitive European space market; strengthening a resilient European space ecosystem; and reinforcing European space governance.
Advancing Europe’s strategic autonomy with the IRIS² satellite constellation
President von der Leyen confirmed the reinforcement of IRIS², the European Union's future secure connectivity satellite constellation. Once deployed, the programme will ensure resilient communications across Europe, keeping governments, emergency services and critical infrastructure connected, including in remote areas and during crises. It will strengthen Europe's digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on non-European satellite systems. The programme's growing traction is also reflected in rising interest from Member States, several of which have pledged additional funding to reinforce IRIS²'s role as a shared European priority.
Building a powerful European space market
Europe needs a strong and competitive space sector that can grow, scale up, and compete globally. This means creating a clear, proportionate and transparent regulatory environment through the EU Space Act with common requirements for the safety, and sustainability of space activities, while avoiding unnecessary burdens on European companies, in particular SMEs and start-ups.
Ensuring autonomous and competitive access to space
President von der Leyen also set out a commitment to strengthen Europe’s access to space through greater private investment, while supporting disruptive and innovative transportation solutions for future missions. At the summit, European public players will also endorse a long-term vision for European Space Transportation, setting up a common direction for Europe’s future access to space.