The European Union has signed a new agreement with the SpaceRISE consortium to expand its IRIS satellite constellation by adding 66 new satellites focused on defense and security. This expansion aims to reduce the EU's dependence on private American satellite services like Starlink, which have become critical during military and emergency operations. The IRIS constellation is designed to support ultra-secure government communications, crisis response, and the protection of vital infrastructure, such as power grids and transportation systems. The addition of these new satellites, which will be placed in low Earth orbit, is expected to significantly boost the EU’s secure communication capabilities by 60%. The program has encountered delays, with the first launches now planned for 2029 and full operational use expected by 2030. To maintain control over key communication resources, the European Commission intends to reserve one-third of the strategic two gigahertz frequency band for exclusive European use. This band is essential for satellite communications and has been a point of contention between European and American operators. To avoid potential conflicts and ensure a smooth transition, licenses for American companies will be extended until 2028. This agreement is anticipated to have major economic benefits for the European satellite industry, with French companies playing a central role in its development. The industry is currently undergoing significant changes, including a planned merger of satellite operations among major European firms like Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo. Additionally, Eutelsat, a leading European satellite operator, is set to raise one and a half billion euros in capital. These developments reflect a broader effort to strengthen Europe’s space capabilities and ensure long-term stability in the sector. Funding for the IRIS program will come from a mix of European, national, and private sources, offering a steady stream of orders for the entire professional digital ecosystem. This includes not only satellite manufacturers and service providers but also companies involved in cybersecurity, data transmission, and infrastructure protection. As the EU moves forward with this initiative, it is positioning itself to play a more independent and influential role in global space and defense technologies.