Many of the sensors contributed by the 15 EU SST participating states are military assets, and the European Defence Fund also is being tapped to help foster commercial innovation in the space situational awareness domain.
Development of more novel weapon systems includes the second phase launch of the Tactical Advanced Laser Optical Systems (TALOS) project (TALOS-TWO), designed to support a long term target of developing 100 kilowatt-class laser weapons by 2030.
Cybersecurity skills must evolve in near-real time as Zero Day threats continue and AI provides new challenges.
After a high-level meeting, both stressed a separate European Defense Fund effort is no competition for the Main Ground Combat System.
Sounding a note of caution however, the report questions if Spain can continue a "high level of performance and involvement" in EDF projects because of industry suppliers reaching a "saturation point."
The project, which could cost up to €27.3 million, is coordinated through the European Defence Fund and involves an industrial consortium of 14 partners.
Scott Pace, executive director of the National Space Council, warned the EU about its plan for promoting homegrown industry -- ironically, while speaking at an Atlantic Council event on the need for improved transatlantic relations in space.
Is the European Defence Fund a long-overdue move by US allies to take more responsibility for their own security? Or a bid to exclude US companies from European arms markets?