The Union Secure Connectivity programme aims to build the EU's first multi-orbital satellite constellation, dubbed "IRIS2" - an acronym for Infrastructure for resilience, interconnectivity and security by satellite - that will provide more secure, better and high-speed satellite connectivity for the entire Old Continent.

Combining the benefits of low, medium and geostationary orbit systems, IRIS2 will ensure secure communication services to the European Union and member states, as well as broadband connectivity for citizens, businesses and government agencies.

In addition, the new satellites will ensure the EU's strategic autonomy in the field of secure government communications, in a context where cybersecurity threats