EU launches Iris2 satellite network to compete with Starlink

The European Union has announced plans for a new satellite network called Iris2, aimed at providing high-speed internet to remote areas. The project will cost approximately $11 billion and will consist of 290 satellites, expected to launch by 2030. This initiative comes as a direct response to Elon Musk's Starlink, which currently operates around 7,000 satellites globally. The EU has expressed concerns about reliance on Starlink, especially regarding its role in military communications during the war in Ukraine. In addition to the EU's efforts, Amazon is also developing a satellite network called Project Kuiper, with the first satellites set to launch next year. This competition highlights a growing trend in satellite internet services.