The IRIS² program is set to launch Europe's first multi-orbital satellite constellation, consisting of approximately 300 satellites.

This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for connectivity in the digital economy, providing performance levels comparable to terrestrial infrastructures.

The constellation will deliver a secure communication infrastructure for EU institutions, enhancing Europe's strategic autonomy in government communications.

An invitation to tender for the development of the constellation was issued in May 2023, with a consortium of operators selected to submit a proposal by early September 2024.

IRIS² will enable a wide range of services, including border surveillance, crisis management, and telemedicine in remote areas.

Control centers for the constellation will be established in Toulouse (France), Fucino (Italy), and Bettembourg (Luxembourg).

The constellation will be deployed across two different orbits to ensure low-latency connectivity, crucial for various applications from infrastructure management to humanitarian aid.

The program aims to strengthen Europe's positioning and its operators in the global telecommunications market.

IRIS² was decided in March 2023 and is funded by the European Union with a budget of €2.4 billion, with additional funding planned for the period from 2028 to 2035.