EU Wants to Increase Space Launch Capacity

In his speech at the 2nd EU Access to Space Conference held in Brussels, Kubilius stated that approximately 50 thousand satellites are expected to be sent into space around the world in the next 10 years, and that launch opportunities fall behind this demand.

Noting that the EU will need 62 launches by 2034 for its projects such as satellite navigation system Galileo, earth observation program Copernicus and secure satellite communication network IRIS², Kubilius said, "We must close this gap. Europe's space programs, defense and security depend on it." he said.

Emphasizing that ensuring Europe's independent access to space is their most important goal, Kubilius stated that they should not be dependent on foreign rockets.

Kubilius said that he will visit launch facilities, production and test centers in Europe and evaluate ways to increase capacity, and that he aims to present an action plan on access to space next year.