Commissioner Andrius Kubilius delivered a keynote speech at Perspectives Spatiales, outlining a strategic vision for the European Union's future role in space. As the EU's first Commissioner for Defence and Space, Kubilius emphasized the imperative of enhanced cooperation and competition to maintain and expand Europe’s role as a global space power.
Strategic Autonomy and Space Economy Ambitions Kubilius highlighted the urgent need for Europe to maintain its lead amid a rapidly evolving space economy, expected to triple in size in the 21st century. Key policy directions include guaranteeing autonomous access to space through accelerated development of launchers, such as Ariane 6 and Vega C, mastering reusability technologies, and establishing a long-term vision for European launchers involving the European Space Agency, Member States, and the industry. A proposed "Space Act" aims to create an internal market for space, promoting increased competition in space transport and bolstering investment from national governments, private entities, and EU-level bodies.
Defence and Security in Space Kubilius underscored the growing military significance of space, citing Russian anti-satellite activities and the strategic use of satellites in the Ukraine conflict. Concrete measures include pooling governmental satellite communication services, activating Galileo's Public Regulated Service, advancing space-based intelligence and surveillance capabilities, and developing a missile Early Warning system and space situational awareness. These efforts are intended to culminate in a "European Space Shield," designated as a Defence Project of Common European Interest.
Political Cleavages and Stakeholder Impact Kubilius's proposals reflect a push for increasing EU powers in space policy, enhancing military capabilities, and fostering a competitive yet cooperative market environment. National space agencies and industries, especially France’s established sector, may see benefits from increased funding and market opportunities but must adapt to strengthened EU coordination and new regulatory frameworks. Defence agencies could gain improved space-based intelligence but also face the challenge of integrating technologies at the EU level. European consumers and taxpayers may experience indirect effects through enhanced security and potential economic growth in space-related sectors.
Kubilius’s speech signals a shift toward deeper EU integration in space endeavours, blending civilian and defence priorities with a call for urgency against the backdrop of geopolitical and technological competition. His concrete policy proposals and deadlines demonstrate a move beyond general aspirations toward actionable targets focused on strategic autonomy and collective defence capabilities in space.
← Atlas › News › Defence