Europe Awards Contract for Delayed IRIS² Satellite Constellation

The European Commission has selected SpaceRISE to build and operate the IRIS² network, with services now expected to begin by 2030.

The IRIS² program's cost is estimated at over 10 billion euros, nearly double the initial projections.
The satellite network aims to enhance Europe's secure and resilient communications infrastructure.
The project has been delayed, with the start of services pushed back to 2030, three years later than planned.
SpaceRISE, led by SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat, will design, deliver, and operate the network under a 12-year agreement.
The European Commission plans to fund the project only through 2027, with additional funding subject to future appropriations.