IRIS^2 is the new flagship project of the EU Space Programme
The implementation of the EU Space Programme's Satellite Communications Programme IRIS^2 (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite) will begin.
The system is planned to be operational in 2027, with a preliminary budget of approximately EUR 6 billion. According to the Regulation Directive, 30% of the procurement and subcontracting of the scheme must be directed at SMEs.
On 30 March 2023, the European Commission will organise an information event for industry on the procurement that will open up to competition.