The Commission didn't say how much it will cost, but European media outlets have reported that IRIS² could top €10 billion ($10.8 billion).

The 12-year contract will involve launching 290 satellites—a far smaller scope than the 6,000+ active Starlink satellites that SpaceX already operates. IRIS² must also start supplying satellite connectivity to government clients by 2030. The consortium says “full operational status” is currently targeted for the early 2030s.