Wire · technology
Europe gets its Starlink rival, signs deal for IRIS2 satellite project
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Fusion42 · 28 August 2026 · Fusion42 review
The European Commission and SpaceRISE consortium have agreed to deploy the IRIS2 satellite constellation with 66 new satellites, expanding the total to 348 by 2029. IRIS2 aims to provide secure, encrypted connectivity for government, defence, and emergency services, positioning itself as Europe's sovereign alternative to SpaceX's Starlink.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Telecom & Connectivity, and 6 sources have reported it between 7 Aug 2026 and 8 Aug 2026.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
You face a new competitor in satellite internet as Europe scales up IRIS2 for secure government and defence links. If your service relies on starlink, prepare for fresh market pressure and new partnership potentials in Europe.
◆ Coverage
6 sources · first reported 7 Aug 2026 · latest 8 Aug 2026
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