Iceland, Norway deepen EU ties, enter into secure satellite communications programme
Iceland and Norway have signed agreements to join the European Union’s Secure Connectivity programme, securing access to satellite-based communications as concerns grow over the resilience of critical infrastructure and communications systems.
The agreements, signed in Brussels Thursday, give both countries access to EU systems designed to ensure secure and resilient communications for governments, emergency services and critical infrastructure.
Iceland’s Minister of Infrastructure, Eyjólfur Ármannsson, described the move in a press release as a major step forward for the country’s security and digital resilience.
“Iceland’s participation in these European programmes on secure satellite communications is a major step and will strengthen the foundations of Iceland’s telecommunications security. Our active participation enhances Iceland’s digital sovereignty and supports our goal of increasing the resilience of infrastructure in the country.”
The programme includes GOVSATCOM and the planned IRIS² satellite constellation, which aim to provide secure communications across Europe, including during crises or infrastructure disruptions.
For Iceland, the agreement is particularly significant given its reliance on submarine cables for international connectivity. Satellite systems are expected to provide a critical backup and improve national preparedness.
Bringing Norway closer to EU security
Norway framed its participation as both a security measure and an opportunity to strengthen its role in Europe’s space industry.
Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth said in a press release that participation would strengthen Norway’s role in Europe’s technological development.
“Participation in EU’s Secure Connectivity-program will grant Norway access to secure satellite-based communication services and makes it possible for Norwegian industries to play a greater role in shaping strategic systems for the whole of Europe. The agreement marks a significant step towards bringing Norway closer to EU’s work on security, resilience and technological independence in space.”
Closer ties to European space cooperation
Both countries, while not members of the EU, are part of the European Economic Area and already cooperate closely with the bloc on space programmes.
The new agreement expands that cooperation into one of Europe’s most strategic areas — secure satellite communications — at a time of heightened concern over the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, including subsea cables, increasing cyber threats and the role of space-based systems in geopolitical competition and crisis response.
