Europe's answer to Starlink: Who is building IRIS² and what is Germany's role
Ukraine reported Starlink service restrictions, raising concerns about dependency on satellite links. The EU is developing IRIS², a satellite network with 348 satellites, for secure connections. Germany's OHB is involved, signing a €1 billion contract for 18 satellites. The Bundeswehr plans its own network, SATCOMBw 4, with up to 40 satellites operational by 2029. Aerospacelab and Airbus are also building satellites for IRIS², with launches planned from 2029.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
The contract awards to SES and Airbus represent the first major procurement steps, signaling tangible progress and creating new revenue streams for the contractors.
Market read
The announcements provide fresh, material information on two listed aerospace firms, offering a trading edge for investors.
What to watch
Potential cost overruns or regulatory delays in the EU could dampen the expected upside for contractors.
Background
The EU is developing its own satellite network (IRIS²) to reduce reliance on US‑based services after recent Starlink restrictions in Ukraine.
Ticker impact
SES signed a €1 billion contract to provide 18 medium‑Earth‑orbit satellites for the EU IRIS² network.
likely upward pressure as the market prices in the new €1 bn contract.
Large, multi‑year satellite supply deal confirmed; SES gains a strategic European customer.
Market effects
Strengthens the European satellite‑communications sector and may benefit related launch‑service providers.
Supports German aerospace firms and could lift broader German industrial sentiment.
Shows EU push for independent satellite capability, affecting competitive dynamics with SpaceX and Amazon.
Counterpoint
If launch capacity constraints persist, the IRIS² schedule could slip, limiting near‑term revenue impact.
Key entities
- CompanySES
European satellite operator providing 18 MEO satellites for IRIS².
- CompanyAirbus
Aerospace manufacturer building 66 military‑grade satellites for IRIS².
