Zelensky confirmed on October 17 that European countries are actively developing alternatives to Starlink for Ukraine, identifying the EU’s IRIS2 satellite constellation as the vehicle for that effort. European satellite communications suppliers stand to absorb work that would otherwise flow to SpaceX, turning policy intent into operational planning.
IRIS2 as the vehicle
The EU’s IRIS2 constellation is described as the most concrete vehicle for the push to provide alternatives to Starlink, and its accelerated path toward deployment positions European satellite communications suppliers to take on roles previously expected to go to SpaceX.
Implications for suppliers and investors
European satcom suppliers now have a named, high-profile customer rationale behind them. For investors tracking the satellite and defense communications space, Zelensky’s confirmation marks the moment when policy intent becomes operational.
