Andrius Kubilius, the EU’s defence and space commissioner, stressed on Tuesday the importance of strong space capabilities for Europe’s defence, calling for more investment and spending in the sector.
Speaking at the 17th European Space Conference in Brussels, Kubilius emphasised Europe’s role in the global space race, warning that without decisive action the continent risks falling behind. He said:
“We are among the leaders in satellite launches and sector revenues. We are global leaders in space. However, we are at a crossroads. To maintain our leadership, we need bold and decisive steps.”
“Whoever controls space controls the future. Europe must maintain its leadership in space. We cannot leave space to aggressive authoritarian regimes,” describing the 21st century as the “space age.”
Kubilius shared predictions that the size of the global space economy could triple over the next decade, emphasising the urgent need to increase spending on space across the EU. He said:
“Our EU market is large but fragmented. Public spending on space is very low and also fragmented. This makes it extremely difficult to undertake large, ambitious, long-term projects. If we do nothing, we face the risk of stagnation and a relative decline compared to others, which is unacceptable.”
To attract private investment and set safety and sustainability standards, Kubilius announced plans for a new “EU space legislation” aimed at creating a “single market.”
He also called for a common industrial strategy to strengthen supply chains, boost innovation and ensure Europe’s autonomous access to space.
Emphasising the need for autonomy in European space initiatives, Kubilius said:
“We must not rely on third-country rockets.”
Kubilius also emphasised the importance of increasing investment in space intelligence, communications and surveillance.
