We are living through one of the most decisive moments for the space sector: a true turning point that will demand determination, vision and collaboration. In recent years, the world has witnessed how space technology—traditionally perceived as the frontier of exploration—has become a strategic necessity. Recent international crises, and particularly the war in Ukraine, have clearly demonstrated how information, connectivity and Earth observation capabilities provided by space are decisive factors in protecting citizens and safeguarding our States.For this reason, European technological autonomy is today an unavoidable strategic challenge: Europe cannot depend on third parties for critical services.
In the face of fierce global competition, with powers such as the United States and China investing heavily in the new space race, Europe has both the responsibility and the opportunity to catch up and consolidate its autonomy. This was clearly demonstrated at the recent ESA Ministerial Council held in Bremen, where Member States agreed on a record contribution to Agency programmes, increasing the budget by 31% compared to the previous period.
This is also the first time that ESA has received a mandate from its Member States to develop specific systems and technologies in the fields of Defence and Security through the European Resilience from Space (ERS) programme. This represents a historic shift, recognising space not only as an economic and scientific driver, but also as a pillar of security. As ESA’s Director General stated, “Europe needs to catch up”, and this time, commitments are commensurate with the challenge.
Spain has joined this momentum with determination. Our country has decided to increase its contribution to ESA by more than 50%, from €300 million to €455 million annually. It is also worth highlighting Spain’s strong commitment to leading three pillars within the ERS framework: the Atlantic+ Earth observation constellation, the LEO PNT navigation programme, and the IRIS² Low-LEO connectivity constellation, with Spain as the main contributor to each of these three programmes. From the sector, we welcome and appreciate this decisive national commitment.
To sustain this momentum, the European space industry must ensure its competitiveness in an increasingly globalised and demanding market. Industrial consolidation and capability-strengthening initiatives, both in Europe and in Spain, aim to maximise resources and lead innovation, enabling fair competition with global leaders. Cooperation and the optimisation of public and private resources are the most effective way to develop cutting-edge technologies that will keep our industry at the forefront.
The Spanish space industry is already internationally recognised for its technological capabilities and competitiveness, moving up the value chain and leading highly complex systems. A recent example is the SPAINSAT NG programme, in which Spain has led the development of the most advanced communications payloads in Europe, or the next generation of PAZ-2 radar satellites, which will also feature significant Spanish participation.
At Thales Alenia Space in Spain, we contribute through pioneering projects such as the world’s first quantum key distribution system from geostationary orbit (GEO-QKD), a disruptive technology set to revolutionise secure communications and position Spain and Europe at the forefront of global security.
Another example is the SIRIUS mission to measure urban heat islands using our innovative thermal infrared camera Smart-TIRI, entirely developed in Spain. We are also advancing satellite integration activities: after successfully completing the integration of the SPAINSAT NG payloads, we have recently signed a contract with SWISSto12 to fully integrate four geostationary telecommunications satellites in Spain—a national first.
In short, Europe and Spain are firmly committed to space as a strategic sector for technological autonomy, economic growth and sovereignty, and to maintaining a leadership position in the 21st century. The challenge is significant, but the commitment is clear: the future of Spain and Europe lies in space, and we have everything we need to be key players in this exciting new era.
