Italian Deal with Starlink: No Security Risk, Says Space Agency

The Italian government's potential deal with Elon Musk's Starlink has raised concerns about its alignment with European strategic priorities, including the setup of the EU's IRIS2 constellation, and the potential implications for Italy's jobs, sovereignty, and strategic autonomy. However, the head of the Italian space agency (ASI) has reassured the public that a possible agreement with Starlink would not pose a security risk.

ASI President Teodoro Valente told Reuters that a deal with Starlink would grant secure communications, using national proprietary technology, and that doubts over data security were unfounded from a technical perspective. Valente also emphasized that opting for Starlink's services would not conflict with the IRIS2 program, as Italy is already a funder and future customer of the EU's 12-year project.



The Italian government is considering a five-year deal worth €1.5 billion with Starlink to provide encrypted communications between the government, embassies, and defense officials operating in high-risk geographical areas. The deal has been criticized by opposition parties, who question whether entrusting such communications to a U.S.-owned company would compromise Italy's sovereignty and strategic autonomy.

However, Valente's statement suggests that the Italian government is confident in the security and compatibility of Starlink's services with its existing commitments to the IRIS2 program. The ASI president also noted that negotiations with Starlink have lasted too long, forcing Italy to look elsewhere for secure communication solutions.



In conclusion, while the Italian government's potential deal with Starlink raises concerns about its alignment with European strategic priorities and the potential implications for Italy's jobs, sovereignty, and strategic autonomy, the head of the Italian space agency has reassured the public that a possible agreement with Starlink would not pose a security risk. The Italian government is confident in the security and compatibility of Starlink's services with its existing commitments to the IRIS2 program.