EU Signs Off on IRIS²: 348-Satellite Sovereign Constellation, Double the Original Scope

The European Commission has signed the agreement formalizing IRIS², its sovereign satellite broadband network, with ESA and European manufacturers. The LEO constellation has grown to 348 satellites — more than double the 170 proposed in 2022. First launches and initial services are targeted for 2029. The network prioritizes encrypted governmental communications and reducing dependency on non-European providers.