The European Union is preparing to accelerate antitrust approval for Project Bromo, a SpaceX satellite rival backed by Airbus, Leonardo and Thales. The move could strengthen Europe’s satellite industry and reduce reliance on American technology.
BRUSSELS: The European Union is preparing to fast-track regulatory approval for a SpaceX satellite rival as it seeks to strengthen Europe’s position in the rapidly expanding satellite communications market.
The proposed venture, known as Project Bromo, brings together three major European aerospace and defence companies: Airbus, Leonardo and Thales.
According to a Bloomberg report published on October 15, 2026, European Commission officials are working towards a faster antitrust review following extensive discussions with the companies involved.
The development reflects Europe’s growing ambition to develop its own satellite capabilities and reduce dependence on American technology companies.
What is Project Bromo and why does Europe want it?
Project Bromo aims to combine European expertise in satellite manufacturing, space technology and communications infrastructure into a stronger industrial business.
The venture is expected to improve Europe’s ability to compete internationally while supporting the region’s strategic technological independence.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reportedly recognised the project as a potential European industrial champion.
The initiative comes as governments increasingly regard satellite communications as essential infrastructure for economic security, digital connectivity and national resilience.
Why is the EU accelerating approval?
European regulators have spent much of the past year discussing potential competition concerns with the three companies.
These preliminary discussions are intended to identify and resolve regulatory issues before a formal application is submitted.
The companies have not yet filed for approval, but EU officials expect a notification in the coming weeks, according to Bloomberg.
Faster regulatory clearance could allow the partners to move ahead with their proposed combination sooner, although approval has not yet been granted.
How could Project Bromo challenge SpaceX?
SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk, has established a substantial presence in satellite communications through its Starlink network.
Europe has increasingly focused on building alternatives to foreign-controlled satellite systems, particularly for sensitive government communications and strategically important infrastructure.
The proposed SpaceX satellite rival could strengthen Europe’s commercial space industry by bringing major industrial resources and technological expertise together.
However, regulatory approval alone would not guarantee that the new venture could quickly match SpaceX’s operational scale or established market position.
Separately, the EU is developing IRIS², a secure satellite communications programme intended to improve European connectivity and technological autonomy.
The European Commission confirmed in August 2026 that the IRIS² constellation had expanded to 348 planned satellites, with initial launches scheduled for 2029.
Impact to expect
Faster approval could strengthen Europe’s satellite manufacturing sector, encourage investment and create fresh competition in the global space industry. Over time, stronger European satellite capabilities may also benefit international customers, including governments and businesses in the Middle East seeking more diverse connectivity options.
For now, the next important development will be the formal regulatory filing by Airbus, Leonardo and Thales.
