- Category: Library
- 2026-04-08
The European Commission has proposed a standalone regulation establishing the European Union Space Services Agency (EUSPA), replacing the current European Union Agency for the Space Programme.
The new regulation provides a permanent legal framework to implement and support the EU Space Programme and related policies for 2028–2034, within the scope of the European Competitiveness Fund.
A permanent and autonomous mandate
The current EUSPA mandate, defined by Regulation (EU) 2021/696 and expanded by Regulation (EU) 2023/588, is linked to the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021–2027 and the Union Secure Connectivity Programme.
The proposed regulation transforms EUSPA into a permanent, autonomous agency, providing clear responsibilities, legal certainty, and operational stability beyond 2027.
This permanent mandate strengthens the Agency’s ability to implement Union Space Systems and support EU space policy, ensuring continuity in both civil and defence initiatives while establishing a solid foundation for Europe’s long-term space strategy.
Integration with the European Competitiveness Fund
From 2028 onwards, EUSPA’s operations will be integrated into the European Competitiveness Fund, a dedicated financial mechanism that supports strategic investments in technology, innovation, and industrial capabilities.
This integration ensures stable and predictable funding, enabling long-term planning and the execution of strategic programmes. By aligning its activities with EU priorities, EUSPA will actively contribute to Europe’s technological autonomy, industrial competitiveness, and innovation capacity in the space sector.
Supporting the downstream sector
The reform also has important implications for downstream operators, including service providers, startups, and industrial actors. EUSPA will continue to facilitate the development and deployment of satellite-based services such as navigation, Earth observation, and secure communications.
The permanent legal framework guarantees operational continuity and reduces investment risks, while opening opportunities for innovation and the creation of new applications based on EU space infrastructure. By bridging upstream capabilities and downstream applications, EUSPA helps increase the adoption of space services across civil, commercial, and defence domains, stimulating market growth and economic development.
Strategic significance for Europe
With its strengthened mandate, EUSPA is set to become a cornerstone of Europe’s space ecosystem. The Agency will provide continuity and stability, ensuring that Union Space Systems and services are effectively leveraged for civil and defence purposes.
The reform also reinforces Europe’s capacity to support industrial competitiveness, technological development, and the commercialisation of downstream services.
Finbally, by providing legal certainty and linking funding to the Competitiveness Fund, the EU ensures that EUSPA can drive innovation, facilitate market uptake, and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy in space over the next decade.