Defence and Space: a strategic priority for Europe and the Netherlands
In a time of rising geopolitical tensions and rapid technological advancements, Defence and Space have become more intertwined than ever. The importance of strategic autonomy of the Netherlands and the EU is growing. Satellites play a critical role in civil and military communication, navigation, surveillance and the protection of vital infrastructure. At the same time, dual-use innovations in Defence technology are opening new opportunities for civilian applications, for example in the area of science and climate.
We spoke to Michiel Selier, Senior Associate at Unified International, about the global trends shaping Defence and Space and the challenges for Europe and the Netherlands in this evolving landscape.
What global trends are shaping the Defence and Space sectors?
Geopolitical tensions and the increasing militarisation of space are driving a focus on security, military capabilities and protecting critical infrastructure from threats. Global powers are expanding their presence in space, making it crucial for Europe to reduce external dependence and invest in autonomous systems like secure communication, navigation networks and advanced radar technologies.
Cyberattacks also pose a significant and growing threat to satellites, making the protection of these critical assets a top priority. Securing Europe’s space infrastructure is essential for maintaining operational security and safeguarding its interests amid escalating cyber threats and space conflicts.
Emerging technologies such as laser satellite communication offer high-security, high-bandwidth communication options, reducing the risk of interception and enhancing Europe’s operational capabilities in both civilian and military contexts.
Since 2022, space has been officially recognised as a strategic security domain. What are the reasons behind this development?
In the past security was focused on land, sea and air. However, with the increasing importance of cyber and space domains, security strategies have evolved. Space assets are crucial for communication, navigation and intelligence. Developing independent systems is vital for Europe’s security strategy to reduce reliance on foreign technology and ensure resilience in the face of emerging threats.
In 2022, the Netherlands developed its own Defence Space Agenda, outlining the growing importance of space for national security. To provide a fully encompassing foundation, a Long-term Space Agenda for the Netherlands was developed and presented to the government last February. This document reinforces the need for continued investment in defence capabilities alongside advancements in satellite communications, Earth observation and space innovation.
Together, these initiatives strengthen strategic autonomy, national security and the Netherlands’ role in the European space domain.
What are the key challenges for the Netherlands in integrating space technology into defence?
Traditionally the Netherlands space sector has been focused on civil applications and the European Space Agency. While the Netherlands, through ESA involvement, has developed a strong civil space ecosystem, integrating space technology into Defence poses unique challenges. Defence development and procurement processes are different and prioritise security, autonomy and sovereign operational deployment, differing from civil space projects. It is essential to have good knowledge of how defence forces operate and how requirements definition and procurement work in order to be a viable supplier to the ministry of defence. On the other hand, longer term commitment from the Ministry of Defence to space industry and the need for dual use exploitation will support the viability of investments needed in industry to scale up.
Managing the supply chain to reduce dependencies and maintain European autonomy is critical. Ensuring technology choices meet security, sustainability and strategic needs remains a key challenge.
The launch of BRIK II, the first Dutch military nanosatellite, marked a major step in integrating space into Defence strategy, enhancing secure communication and situational awareness. Developed by ISISPACE, a Dutch leader in cube satellite solutions, BRIK II demonstrated the potential of such satellites for military applications. Examples like the development of the PAMI-1 satellite, which is set to be manufactured in the Netherlands, highlight the country’s growing role in European space and defence.
Why is strategic autonomy essential for Europe?
Strategic autonomy is vital for Europe to maintain security and sovereignty in a volatile geopolitical landscape. Reducing dependence on foreign technology, such as the U.S. GPS system, mitigates geopolitical risks. Developing autonomous Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems, ISR capabilities and secure satellite communication is crucial for protecting critical infrastructure. Initiatives like the Galileo navigation system and IRIS2 secure connectivity project demonstrate Europe’s commitment to these goals.
Investing in Defence space technology addresses evolving security needs. The Netherlands continues to contribute to European strategic autonomy by expanding its satellite capabilities, building on previous successes and advancing new military space initiatives. ISISPACE is now focusing on the development of operational military satellites to further enhance the Ministry of Defence’s information capabilities. Meanwhile, innovations such as laser satellite communication reduce reliance on non-European technologies, reinforcing Europe’s strategic position globally.
About Unified International
Unified International offers strategic consultancy and operational expertise to strengthen innovation, security and collaboration across the defence and high-tech sectors. Our extensive understanding of defence operations, procurement processes and civil security domains allows us to provide tailored solutions that meet evolving industry needs.
Unified is involved in several key projects, including a collaboration with Axient Systems in the space and defence sector and a dedicated Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) project for North Sea protection. Additionally, Unified is running a Critical Asset Security project focused on safeguarding vital infrastructure.
With diverse experience in dual-use technologies and critical infrastructure security, Unified delivers targeted solutions for both Defence and civilian markets, fostering innovation and strengthening collaboration.
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