Europe’s Strategic Space Offensive: Accelerating Iris2 to Counter Starlink
Europe is intensifying its efforts to establish a more robust and independent presence in space, driven by concerns over reliance on U.S. Services like Starlink and the rise of new global competitors. A key component of this strategy is the accelerated deployment of the Iris2 constellation, with a target of initial operations by 2029. This push is coupled with a significant increase in the European space budget and a move towards consolidating the continent’s space industry.
The Imperative of Sovereignty
According to Benjamin Haddad, the French Minister Delegate for Europe, the rapid deployment of Iris2 in low Earth orbit is “a sovereignty imperative.” Haddad emphasized the necessitate to counter the growing influence of private players like Starlink and other emerging global competitors. The initiative aims to secure Europe’s access to critical space-based infrastructure for both civilian and military purposes.
Tripling the Space Budget
The European Union is demonstrating its commitment to space through a substantial increase in funding. The overall defense and space budget is set to reach €135 billion for the next multiannual financial framework (2028-2034), with €45 billion specifically allocated to space. This represents a tripling of the previous budget, reinforcing the principle of “European preference” – ensuring that resources support European companies rather than those based elsewhere.
Consolidating European Industry: The Bromo Project
Brussels is also signaling a shift in its industrial strategy with support for the Bromo project. This initiative aims to merge the space activities of Airbus, Thales and Leonardo, creating a single European champion capable of competing with American giants. Haddad highlighted this as a doctrinal shift, addressing the fragmentation that has historically hampered Europe’s space ambitions.
Negotiations for the Next MFF
The acceleration of Iris2 and the increased budget are central to ongoing negotiations for the EU’s next multiannual financial framework. Haddad has raised the issue with European Commissioner for Defense, Andrius Kubilius, recognizing the project’s complexity but underscoring its strategic importance. France is advocating for a swift launch of the first Iris2 satellites.
Reducing Dependence on U.S. Services
The drive for European independence in space is rooted in a desire to reduce reliance on American services. Efforts to accelerate Iris2 are directly linked to this goal, aiming to provide a European alternative to Starlink and other U.S.-based constellations.
European Space Ambitions at the National Assembly
In March 2025, the French National Assembly discussed strengthening support for Ukraine, with Benjamin Haddad, Minister Delegate for Europe, participating in the debate. The discussion highlighted the importance of European space capabilities in the context of geopolitical challenges.
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