The EU has signed an agreement with Norway and Iceland granting the two countries access to the satellite programmes GOVSATCOM and IRIS². This was announced by both the EU and the two countries in an article published on the European Commission's website.

– This agreement marks an important step towards bringing Norway closer to the EU's work on security, resilience and technological independence in space. We are living in an uncertain time in which the need for European autonomy is constantly growing. It is therefore important that we cooperate as the EU develops its new space programmes, says Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth in the article.

EU GOVSATCOM is an initiative which, according to the Commission, is intended to ensure access to reliable, secure and cost-effective satellite communications. IRIS², also known as the Secure Connectivity Programme, consists of a constellation of 290 satellites. The system is designed to provide secure connectivity services to the EU and its member states, as well as broadband connectivity for government authorities, private companies and European citizens.

Through the agreement, Norway and Iceland also gain access to the programmes. The agreement was signed by EU Defence and Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius, together with Norway's Cecilie Myrseth and Iceland's EU Ambassador Stefán Haukur Jóhannesson.

In the article, the European Commission highlights satellite-based connectivity as critical for security, crisis management and preparedness, particularly in remote areas with limited infrastructure.

The Norwegian government has also commented on the agreement on its website, where it outlines, among other things, the financial terms and Norway's contribution to the programme.

– The Secure Connectivity programme has a budget of €2.4 billion, while GOVSATCOM has a budget of approximately €200 million. Norway's participation is estimated to amount to 451.6 million Norwegian kroner up to 2027, the website states.

The Icelandic government has also commented on the news, stating on its website that the agreement with the EU initially runs until the end of 2027, but will thereafter be automatically renewed in ten-year increments. Iceland also comments on its financial contribution.

– The total costs of Iceland's participation are estimated to amount to approximately 127 million Icelandic krónur in 2026 and around 119 million Icelandic krónur in 2027, the website states.