03-03-2025
Europe vs Starlink: Can the EU secure a footprint in space?
In today's digital world, losing an internet connection is often a mere inconvenience for individuals - but for nations, it can be a serious security risk.
This became evident during Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine when mobile networks and internet access came under threat.
In response, tech billionaire Elon Musk stepped in, providing high-speed connectivity to Ukrainian authorities through his Starlink satellite system.
The European Union has long trailed behind space powerhouses like Musk's company SpaceX and the US space agency NASA, but it's now taking steps to close the gap.
In order to catch up, the European Commission has signed a contract for the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (Iris2), a satellite network designed to strengthen Europe's technological sovereignty.
"In times of crisis, we cannot afford to be too dependent on countries or companies from outside the European Union," EU Commissioner Andrius Kubilius recently said.
Foreign policy chief warns of war in space
Unlike Starlink, Iris2 is therefore to be controlled by EU states.
"Whoever uses Starlink is ultimately dependent on one person," explains Antje Nötzold, researcher and lecturer in international politics at University of Technology Chemnitz.
"We saw this in Ukraine when Musk did not activate his network for certain areas," Nötzold says.
The space programme will explicitly contribute to the defence needs of EU countries, Kubilius, who is the EU's defence and space commissioner, says. He emphasizes that "IRIS2 will be vital for our security and defence."
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has even warned that conflicts are already being waged in space, citing cyberattacks and satellite disruptions as emerging threats.
The first Iris2 launch is set for 2030, with the goal of providing fast internet to both government and civilian users.
However, it remains unclear to what extent private individuals will benefit - especially in the early stages.
Security take centre stage
Will Europe have a more secure internet in five years?
"Technically, that would be possible, but the exact specifications are still largely undefined," says Matthias Wachter from the Federation of German Industry (BDI).
The space project aims to ensure that Europe has an independent infrastructure in the event of an emergency. However, civilian benefits may take a back seat in the event of a conflict, notes security expert Antje Nötzold.
"If there are already established alternatives, Iris2 must first assert itself against other commercial providers and win customers," she notes.
According to the European Space Agency (ESA), Iris2 will offer critical security features that commercial providers like Starlink do not.
These safeguards are designed to protect against cyberattacks and physical threats - both on the ground and in orbit.
"Conceptually, this is a major difference to Starlink," explains Wachter.
With a price tag of nearly €11 billion ($11.5 billion), Iris2 represents a major investment in Europe's space industry. The EU is covering the bulk of the cost - about €6 billion - with additional funding from the ESA and private investors.
Beyond security, the project is also seen as a way to boost Europe's space economy. Companies worldwide are racing to establish a foothold in orbit, from Musk's Mars ambitions to the rise of space tourism and the booming satellite communications market.
While private players dominate the sector, European leaders are determined to ensure the continent gets its share of the future space economy.
Is there still room in space?
However, the expansion of satellite networks brings new challenges. Space is getting crowded. ESA estimates that over 13,000 satellites currently orbit the Earth - more than 7,000 of them belonging to Starlink alone.
Experts warn that as more satellites are launched, the risk of collisions will increase, potentially triggering catastrophic chain reactions.
ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher has called for global space traffic regulations to prevent such disasters. Whether international agreements will keep pace with the rapidly evolving space industry remains an open question.
For now, the EU is betting big on Iris2 - both to secure its digital future and to stake its claim in the new space race.
