EU Finalizes IRIS² Satellite Network Expansion

The European Commission has signed an implementation agreement with the SpaceRISE consortium to move the IRIS² satellite project into full-scale deployment. The updated plan expands the constellation to 348 satellites, adding 66 units to the original design to enhance defense and security capabilities. The network will consist of 330 satellites in low Earth orbit and 18 in medium Earth orbit.

The first satellite launches are scheduled for 2029.