The New Symphonie Consortium, a collaborative initiative comprising 22 European companies, was awarded a concept study by the European Commission in December 2021. This study aimed to explore innovative solutions for establishing a secure, reliable, and cost-effective European satellite-based connectivity system. The consortium's formation and subsequent success underscore Europe's commitment to enhancing its digital infrastructure and reducing dependency on non-European entities for critical communication services.
Formation of the New Symphonie Consortium
Established in September 2021, the New Symphonie Consortium brought together a diverse group of European companies from eight countries. The consortium was led by Unseenlabs, a French company specializing in satellite-based radio-frequency detection services, and Euroconsult, a consulting and market intelligence firm focused on the space sector. The initiative aimed to respond to the European Commission's call for tenders titled "New Space solutions for long-term availability of reliable, secure, cost-effective space-based connectivity." ([advanced-television.com](
Objectives of the Concept Study
The primary objective of the concept study was to investigate and recommend optimal infrastructure solutions for secure connectivity markets. The study focused on defining the secure connectivity requirements that could be addressed by a European multi-orbit satellite system. The goal was to design this system using innovative technologies that would result in an attractive business plan, thereby ensuring long-term availability of reliable and cost-effective space-based connectivity. ([satnews.com](
Composition of the Consortium
The New Symphonie Consortium was notable for its multinational composition, reflecting a pan-European approach to the project. The 22 member companies included:
- Aerospacelab (Belgium)
- Anywaves (France)
- Avio (Italy)
- Cailabs (France)
- DE-CIX (Germany)
- Exolaunch (Germany)
- Exotrail (France)
- Fresnel Alliance (France)
- GomSpace (Denmark)
- Greenerwave (France)
- AAC Hyperion (Netherlands)
- Integrasys (Spain)
- KSAT (Norway)
- Loft Orbital (France)
- QEST Antenna Technology (Germany)
- Satconsult (France)
- Secure-IC (France)
- SENER (Spain)
- SITAEL (Italy)
- Tesat (Germany)
- Transatel (France)
This diverse composition combined the experience of established companies with the innovative approaches of small and medium-sized enterprises, collectively driving the advancement of the "New Space" sector. ([satnews.com](
Significance of the Study
The European Commission's decision to award the concept study to the New Symphonie Consortium was part of a broader strategy to develop secure and resilient global connectivity. This initiative responded to the rapid digital transformation and the corresponding rise in cyber threats, as outlined by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her 2020 State of the Union address. The study aimed to define the secure connectivity requirements that could be addressed by a European multi-orbit satellite system, thereby contributing to Europe's strategic objective of enhancing its digital sovereignty. ([satnews.com](
Implications for Europe's Digital Infrastructure
The successful bid by the New Symphonie Consortium marked a significant step toward strengthening Europe's digital infrastructure. By focusing on secure and cost-effective satellite-based connectivity, the consortium aimed to reduce Europe's reliance on non-European entities for critical communication services. This initiative was expected to foster innovation within the European space sector and contribute to the development of a more autonomous and secure digital ecosystem. ([satnews.com](
Conclusion
The New Symphonie Consortium's award of the European Commission's concept study in December 2021 highlights Europe's proactive approach to enhancing its digital infrastructure. Through collaboration among a diverse group of European companies, the initiative sought to develop innovative solutions for secure and reliable satellite-based connectivity. The outcomes of this study were anticipated to play a pivotal role in shaping Europe's future digital landscape, ensuring that it remains resilient and self-sufficient in the face of evolving technological challenges.
Sources
- SatNews — New Symphonie’s Consortium Awarded Concept Study For The European Commission —
- Satellite Evolution — New Symphonie consortium wins concept study for the European Commission —
- Runway Girl Network — Press Release: New Symphonie consortium in Europe wins concept study —
- SpaceWatch.GLOBAL — New Symphonie wins connectivity study for European Commission —
- Transatel — Transatel participates in the New Symphonie consortium —