Increase the EU's long-term budget allocation for space initiatives, suggests Commissioner
The European Union is set to significantly increase its investment in space exploration and related high-tech sectors in the upcoming long-term budget for 2028-2034, although specific project details for space exploration under this budget are still emerging.
According to reports, the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the period 2028-2034 is expected to be around €1.8 trillion over seven years, averaging approximately €250 billion annually for all EU priorities.
In the realm of aviation research and innovation, which is closely linked to Europe’s aerospace and space capabilities, a strategy called ARIS (Aviation Research & Innovation Strategy) has been proposed. ARIS calls for a total investment of €66 billion between 2028 and 2034, with €22.5 billion requested from the EU budget, and the rest sourced from member states and private sectors. Though primarily focused on aviation, such large-scale innovation investments often complement space technologies and infrastructure.
Europe is also preparing a fusion energy strategy as part of its long-term plan. The EU’s organization Fusion for Energy is coordinating efforts related to fusion, including its contribution to ITER, and is pushing for a strategic plan in the 2028-2034 timeframe to ensure Europe’s leadership in this disruptive technology. While fusion is primarily energy-sector focused, the technology’s space exploration potential is recognized.
While specific new space exploration projects or separate dedicated budget lines under the EU’s forthcoming 2028-2034 framework have not been explicitly outlined, it is clear that Europe aims to bolster its technological sovereignty and research capabilities in aerospace and space-related fields through these investments.
One such initiative is the IRIS2 project, an €11 billion initiative aiming to create a secure, multi-orbital satellite network for EU governments and businesses.
The EU Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, has been advocating for increased funding in his policy areas, including the development of more of Europe’s own space intelligence data systems and reducing reliance on the US. Kubilius has yet to secure more space funding in the next MFF to fulfill the rest of his agenda.
As the European Commission prepares to present the first package of its post-2027 long-term budget on 16 July, the battle for funds between old and recent EU priorities is expected to intensify. The EU’s space sector, which has suffered major supply chain disruptions and become less profitable, with lower sales and increased dependence on components like semiconductors and detectors, is hoping for significant increases in funding to regain its competitive edge.
Europe has lost its leading position in the commercial launcher market and geostationary satellites, forcing temporary reliance on US SpaceX rockets for satellite launches. The Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, has delivered the EU Space Act, aimed at creating a true single market for space activities and data, as part of his efforts to strengthen Europe’s space sector.
If enough funding is not allocated and projects are not started, Europe may find itself in an "unattractive situation" by 2035, according to Kubilius. The Commissioner's roadmap for the EU to remain a space power includes continuing development of flagship programs, launching an EU space industrial strategy, ensuring autonomous access to space, strengthening ties between defence and space, and boosting investment.
In conclusion, while the precise new space exploration projects and their individual budgets under the EU’s 2028-2034 framework have not been explicitly outlined, the budget is large, with billions allocated to aerospace innovation and strategic initiatives that can benefit space exploration indirectly. The overall MFF is about €1.8 trillion, with a significant portion likely dedicated to research, innovation, and technology sectors crucial for Europe’s space ambitions.
In the context of the European Union's plans for the 2028-2034 budget, it is anticipated that a portion of the €1.8 trillion will be dedicated to the aerospace innovation sector, including space technologies and infrastructure. The EU Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, has advocated for increased funding in his policy areas, which include the development of space intelligence data systems and autonomous access to space, hinting at potential investments in space-related business and finance.
