EU fast-tracks merger of three European firms into one SpaceX rival. It wants to end reliance on US satellites that failed Ukraine this week
The EU plans to fast-track antitrust approval for Project Bromo, a satellite venture.
The European Union is set to expedite the approval process for Project Bromo, a satellite venture that aims to diminish Europe's dependence on American technology, according to Bloomberg. The initiative, which would consolidate the satellite arms of Italy's Leonardo, France's Airbus, and Thales, is intended to create a European competitor to SpaceX and other global players.
This move comes following reports that the US administration has temporarily disabled Elon Musk's Starlink service for Ukrainian forces, a decision that may have been influenced by the US President's recent deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed support for the project, stating that it represents the kind of industrial champion Europe needs to lead in the space economy of the future.
The partners have been preparing for this potential merger for a year, engaging in discussions with EU officials to address any potential competition concerns before officially submitting a formal application. If the deal proceeds, it could face scrutiny from EU regulators, who may conduct a preliminary review or, if necessary, a more in-depth investigation.
Project Bromo is part of a broader European effort to achieve greater autonomy in space capabilities, as highlighted by recent investments in independent satellite systems, such as Ukraine's own satellite network and France's significant funding towards Eutelsat.
Written by urgent.news from Euromaidan Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
