Space
Photoxpress The development of a European Space Policy in 2007 underlined the importance of space for European security. As Europe establishes a coherent vision of the role of space-based services, the security and defence dimensions have been acknowledged as priorities.
Against this background, the European Defence Agency has been involved notably in the “Structured Dialogue on Space and Security”, gathering the European Commission, the Council Secretariat General, the Crisis Management Planning Directorate of the EEAS and the European Space Agency for regular exchange of views and coordination of respective space-related activities.
The latest Space Policy Resolution of the Council of November “invites the European Commission, the EU Council, assisted by EDA, together with Member States and ESA, to explore ways to support current and future capability needs for crisis management through cost-effective access to robust, secure and reactive space assets and services (integrating global satellite communications, Earth observation, positioning and timing), taking full advantage of dual-use synergies as appropriate.”
Taking account of growing interactions with the European Space Agency (ESA), the EDA Steering Board has invited the Head of the Agency to conclude an Administrative Arrangement with ESA, expected to be concluded in 2011.
EDA follows a capability-driven approach with regard to space, it being a valuable tool in support of wider capability areas such as ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) and NEC (Network enabled capabilities). Space-related activities are being conducted throughout EDA’s Directorates, notably Capabilities, R&T and Armaments.
© 2005-2012 European Defence Agency Information on this site is subject to
.