Wire · technology
EU Commission signs contract to expand IRIS2 satellite constellation
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Fusion42 · 8 August 2026 · Fusion42 review
The European Commission has signed a contract with SpaceRISE to expand the IRIS2 satellite constellation by adding 66 satellites, increasing the total to 348, to provide secure and reliable connectivity to European governments, defence, and emergency services. The constellation is planned to begin operations in 2029.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Telecom & Connectivity, and 15 sources have reported it between 7 Aug 2026 and 8 Aug 2026.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
You face a new opportunity to support European governments and security forces with satellite-based connectivity as IRIS2 moves from planning to deployment. The growing constellation means demand for ground and network services will rise sharply starting 2029.
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15 sources · first reported 7 Aug 2026 · latest 8 Aug 2026
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