EU reveals U.S. $6.8 billion satellite project

The European Commission on February 22, 2022, outlined a 6 billion-euro (U.S. $6.8 billion) satellite communications plan as part of a push to reduce the European Union’s dependence on foreign companies and protect key communications services and surveillance data.

The move comes amid growing concerns over Russian and Chinese military advances in outer space and a surge in satellite launches. (Pictured: A Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite provides a nighttime view of Europe.)

Commercial operators such as Elon Musk’s SpaceX and its Starlink network, which aim to launch tens of thousands of satellites to supply global space-based Wi-Fi, have also contributed to a fast-growing satellite population and resulting debris.

“Our new connectivity infrastructure will deliver high-speed internet access, serve as a backup to our current internet infrastructure, increase our resilience and cyber security, and provide connectivity to the whole of Europe and Africa,” EU industry chief Thierry Breton said in a statement.

The EU proposal aims to build and operate a space-based, state-of-the-art connectivity system, help to counter cyber and electromagnetic threats and improve the resilience of EU telecommunication infrastructures.

The 6 billion-euro cost will be funded by a 2.4 billion-euro contribution from the EU from 2022 until 2027, the EU budget, EU countries, the European Space Agency and private investments.

The EU aims to launch the program in 2023.