Italy's Industry Minister announced on Wednesday that the country is working towards developing its own low-orbit satellites for government communications as a potential substitute for systems offered by Elon Musk. The decision comes after concerns were raised about the reliance on Musk's Starlink satellites for secure communications in sensitive areas.
The proposal faced criticism from opposition members who questioned the prudence of entrusting national security to a foreign entrepreneur with ties to the U.S. government. Minister Adolfo Urso stated in parliament that Italy is actively pursuing an independent national low-orbit satellite system involving key national players, with the intention to provide a competitive option against global operators like Musk.
Urso did not disclose a timeline for the project's development or specify the companies involved but mentioned that the national space agency would conduct a feasibility study. Despite Musk's willingness to support Italy, no formal agreement has been reached between him and the Italian government.
Starlink, a segment of Musk's SpaceX venture, currently operates 6,700 active satellites in low earth orbit. Reports indicate that Italy is contemplating a potential five-year agreement with SpaceX valued at 1.5 billion euros ($1.57 billion).