Italy’s League party urges the government to favour Starlink over French-led Eutelsat for satellite communication systems, citing Starlink's technological edge. The push comes amid delays in the EU’s IRIS² program, as Italy seeks secure communication solutions for officials.
"Satellite showdown: Italy's League party favours for Starlink over French-led Eutelsat"
Italy’s ruling League party is urging the government to favour Elon Musk’s Starlink over the French-led operator Eutelsat in talks to secure satellite communication systems. The push comes as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration seeks encrypted communication solutions for government, diplomatic, and defence officials operating in high-risk areas.
Starlink, which dominates the sector with 6,700 active satellites compared to Eutelsat’s 600, is considered by the League to be the more technologically advanced option. "It would be odd to choose a French entity over a more avant-garde American system," the party stated, without explicitly naming the companies.
The discussions come amid delays in the EU’s IRIS² satellite programme, with both Starlink and Eutelsat currently offering viable interim solutions. However, concerns have been raised over Starlink’s role in global security, particularly following suggestions that Musk’s company could restrict Ukraine’s access to its network.
Meloni’s office clarified that Italy has not entered formal negotiations with any operator and will ensure full transparency in its decision-making. Musk welcomed the League’s backing on his social platform X, responding with a simple: "Much appreciated."
Read next
21:30
Peace Prospects
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about a potential full ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, stating that peace could soon be achieved. Trump's comments add to the growing international calls for de-escalation as the conflict continues to devastate the region.
21:00
FCC Investigation
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated an investigation into several major Chinese companies, including Huawei, ZTE, and China Telecom, to determine if they are circumventing U.S. sanctions and regulations designed to protect national security.
20:33
Tariff Update
Wall Street’s major indexes showed slight improvement on Friday after President Donald Trump suggested flexibility on upcoming tariffs, easing market concerns ahead of potential trade measures next month.
20:26
Boeing Victory
Boeing has won a $20 billion contract to build the F-47 fighter jet for the U.S. Air Force, marking a major boost for the company amid recent challenges.
20:24
Pentagon Meeting
Elon Musk's push to reform U.S. government spending reached new heights on Friday as he held an unprecedented meeting with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon, where discussions centered on innovation, efficiencies, and streamlining Pentagon operations.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment