European nations approved a record €22.1 billion budget for the European Space Agency (ESA) on Thursday, a 30% jump from the prior €16.9 billion three-year allocation, to accelerate independence in launches, satellites, and defense amid intensifying global rivalry. Ministers from 23 member states met in Bremen, Germany, fully endorsing ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher’s request during two days of talks, marking the agency’s largest-ever funding commitment.reuters+3
Launchers, Earth Observation Get Major Boosts
The deal allocates €4.4 billion—a 20% rise—for space transportation like Ariane 6 and Vega-C rockets, plus emerging private launchers via the European Launcher Challenge. Earth observation receives €3.5 billion (up 16%), fueling climate monitoring and security under the European Resilience from Space initiative. Germany pledged over €5 billion, its biggest contribution yet, while Ireland committed €170 million through 2030 to grow its space-tech sector.broadbandbreakfast+3
Defense Push Signals Strategic Shift
For the first time, ESA—a civilian body since 1975—ventures into defense with €1.35 billion for synchronized space capabilities, driven by Ukraine war lessons and U.S. policy uncertainties. Aschbacher hailed the “expression of confidence” in space as vital for economy, security, and daily life, from navigation to cybersecurity. Exclusions like the UK-dropped TRUTHS climate mission underscore fiscal pressures, but partnerships with Canada, Japan, and Australia deepen.bloomberg+3
The triennial pact sets Europe on a 2040 autonomy path, rivaling U.S. and Chinese advances while nurturing private innovation.wikipedia+1
