• The ground-segment work includes antenna infrastructure, satellite-control systems and connections to terrestrial networks across multiple sites
  • Hispasat says the revised IRIS² plan now covers 342 satellites, with first launches planned for 2029 and initial services in 2030

The fact

Hispasat said on 7 August that it will lead the ground segment of IRIS², the European Union’s secure satellite-connectivity programme. The contract is worth more than €1.6 billion and covers antennas, satellite-control systems and links between ground facilities and terrestrial networks. Hispasat is one of three satellite operators in the SpaceRISE consortium, alongside Eutelsat and SES.

Hispasat says the latest IRIS² plan includes 342 satellites: 330 in low Earth orbit and 12 in medium Earth orbit. First launches are planned for 2029, with initial services targeted for 2030. The European Commission’s current IRIS² page still lists 290 satellites, so the 342 figure should be treated as the latest configuration reported by Hispasat rather than a figure yet reflected across all official programme material.

The assessment

Hispasat will now coordinate the ground infrastructure that allows IRIS² satellites to be controlled and connected to terrestrial networks. That includes antennas, control systems, and network links across multiple sites. Its job is to make those facilities work together as one system.

The ground infrastructure also has to be ready in step with the satellite programme. First launches are planned for 2029 and initial services for 2030, so delays in ground facilities or network connections could slow service even if the satellites launch on schedule. For BTW readers, Hispasat is now responsible for making sure the terrestrial side of IRIS² is ready when the constellation begins service.

What to watch

Hispasat has not yet named the ground sites or subcontractors. Site selection, equipment orders, construction starts and testing will be the next concrete milestones. Their timing matters because the terrestrial build must be ready for the 2030 service target alongside the satellite programme.