Luxembourg – January 9, 2025 –

The IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite) project, led by the European Union in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), seeks to enhance Europe’s global connectivity through a secure, resilient satellite system. The project reflects the EU’s strategic objective to reduce dependency on non-European space infrastructure.

The “SpaceRise” consortium, comprising SES SA, Eutelsat SA et Hispasat S.A. and supported by a core team of European subcontractors from the satcom ecosystem, has been selected to manage this initiative. Luxembourg’s inclusion in the IRIS² project underscores the nation’s pivotal role in advancing European space capabilities.

The Luxembourg government has expressed its full support for the IRIS² project, with co-financing from both the European Commission and the national government. The initiative also includes the provision of a two-hectare site for the necessary antenna infrastructure, further cementing Luxembourg’s strategic position in Europe’s space ecosystem.

LuxConnect: Hosting the Luxembourg control center

Following a rigorous selection process, LuxConnect’s Bettembourg site has been chosen to host the primary functions of the Luxembourg control center. This selection highlights several key advantages offered by LuxConnect:

• Pre-built infrastructure: The second phase of the DC1.3 facility in Bettembourg accelerates the project timeline.

• Advanced security expertise: The company proven track record in managing high-security Data Centers ensures top-tier security standards.

• Superior connectivity: The quality and reliability of LuxConnect’s connectivity solutions are well-recognized, making it a trusted partner for high level projects.

LuxConnect’s role will focus on the operation, management and update of the high-security building, ensuring the seamless operation of the control center. Although this mission is far removed from our core business, it corresponds to LuxConnect’s core expertise in managing facilities with stringent safety and connectivity requirements.

Paul Konsbruck, CEO, commented “We are incredibly proud to have been selected for this pivotal project. LuxConnect’s recognized expertise in managing high-security and high-connectivity infrastructures played a crucial role in our selection. Our team is committed to contributing our skills and experience to support Europe’s ambition for a resilient and secure digital future.”

Building a resilient future

IRIS² is designed to meet the rising demand for secure, high-speed connectivity, catering to European institutions, military, businesses, and the public. By incorporating quantum communication to this project through the EuroQCI initiative, Luxembourg strengthens its position in advanced technology.

LuxConnect’s role in managing the control center infrastructure reinforces Luxembourg’s strategic importance in secure satellite communications, while also supporting Europe’s digital resilience and fostering job creation in the region.