Europe's Space Giants Unite to Challenge Starlink

In a landmark move, Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo have reached a deal to merge their satellite manufacturing and services, aiming to challenge Elon Musk's Starlink. Set to operate from 2027, this venture will bolster European leadership in space technology amidst global competition.

Europe's aerospace industry is gearing up for a major transformation as Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo announce a merger of their satellite and services businesses. This ambitious venture, which marks the continent's largest aerospace agreement since MBDA's creation in 2001, aims to rival Elon Musk's Starlink network.

French Finance Minister Roland Lescure hailed the preliminary agreement as a move to bolster European sovereignty amid intense global competition. Meanwhile, Italy's Industry Minister Adolfo Urso emphasized the importance of nurturing European champions to compete on a global scale.

The merger, code-named 'Project Bromo,' comes at a time when traditional satellite makers are pressured by low-cost, smaller satellites like those in the Starlink network. The venture is expected to begin operations by 2027, employing 25,000 people and generating over 6.5 billion euros in revenue.

(With inputs from agencies.)