Wire · technology
Europe Will Launch Its Own Satellite Constellation As Its Breakup With America Continues
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◆ Geography
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◆ Verified
Fusion42 · 28 August 2026 · Fusion42 review
The European Union plans to launch the IRIS² satellite constellation by 2029, with 66 new satellites part of a total 348 in low- and medium-Earth orbits, aiming to secure independent and redundant communication capabilities for governments and militaries. This development signals Europe's move to reduce dependency on U.S.-controlled satellite services like SpaceX Starlink amid geopolitical tensions.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Telecom & Connectivity, and 7 sources have reported it between 7 Aug 2026 and 8 Aug 2026.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
Europe is building a satellite network independent of U.S. providers like SpaceX. You in connectivity should prepare to offer alternatives or complementary services as government demand for European-controlled secure communications grows.
◆ Coverage
7 sources · first reported 7 Aug 2026 · latest 8 Aug 2026
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