Wire · technology
EU expands IRIS² secure satellite constellation to 348 spacecraft, adding 66 satellites for ...
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Fusion42 · 29 August 2026 · Fusion42 review
The EU has agreed to expand the IRIS² satellite constellation to 348 spacecraft, including 66 advanced satellites dedicated to defence, security, and emergency services, with initial launches moved up to 2029. This expansion enhances secure government communications globally and supports crisis response where terrestrial networks are vulnerable.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Telecom & Connectivity, and 13 sources have reported it between 7 Aug 2026 and 8 Aug 2026.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
The boost in the IRIS² constellation signals new markets and procurement opportunities for satellite hardware and secure communications providers across Europe. You should explore partnerships now as European government demand for hardened connectivity and defence-grade satellite services is about to surge.
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13 sources · first reported 7 Aug 2026 · latest 8 Aug 2026
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