# Europe launches IRIS2 satellite fleet to rival Starlink 2026-08-08T07:41:28+00:00 | World & Diplomacy | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Europe is building IRIS2, a satellite internet network designed to rival Elon Musk's Starlink. The constellation will provide secure connectivity for European governments, defence forces, and emergency services. NDTV reports the project aims to reduce Europe's dependence on foreign-owned satellite systems, particularly for military and crisis response communications. IRIS2 is positioned as a sovereign European alternative in the growing space-based internet market. The initiative faces significant challenges. Starlink currently operates over 6,000 satellites, while IRIS2 remains in the planning stage with no launch date announced. ## Coverage - ndtv.com Tags: defence communications, European Union, satellite internet, space technology, Starlink rival Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/europe-launches-iris2-satellite-fleet-to-rival-starlink/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/europe-launches-iris2-satellite-fleet-to-rival-starlink/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.