Vaduz Space Dialogue Proposed Federated Satellite Network
The dialogue examined building a federated network of satellite systems to enhance European connectivity and security.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Space
Live Poll
Should nations prioritize building independent satellite infrastructure over participating in a shared federated system?
Officials at the Vaduz Space Dialogue discussed the potential for a federated satellite connectivity network to link national and commercial systems. This model aims to reduce reliance on single-provider constellations by connecting existing infrastructure.
Why it matters
The war in Ukraine highlighted the security vulnerabilities associated with relying on foreign-controlled constellations. European stakeholders are pursuing this decentralized approach to avoid the single points of failure found in systems like Starlink.
The proposed federation utilizes Ka-band spectrum to facilitate high-volume data transmission via small terminals. The model connects existing systems while allowing owners to retain control through pre-negotiated access agreements.
The players
Open Cosmos
This company serves as the primary industrial partner for Liechtenstein in its satellite connectivity initiatives.
Torsten Kriening
He is the lead figure tasked with monitoring the development of governance, interoperability, and partnerships through 2027.
The details
The initiative seeks to integrate satellite filings into broader European value chains to bolster regional independence. Liechtenstein has positioned itself as a hub for this strategy, partnering with Open Cosmos to advance these connectivity goals.
Timeline
The Vaduz Space Dialogue occurred on September 29, 2026.
Progress on governance and interoperability will be assessed through 2027.
Governmental and military satellite services are targeted for 2029.
Liechtenstein aims to integrate its space sector by 2035.
The Big Picture
The federated model marks a shift away from singular centralized constellations toward a distributed architecture. This approach follows the pattern set by the IRIS² satellite capacity initiative to enhance resilience across the European space sector.
The implementation of this network could eventually lead to more robust and secure data transmission capabilities across Europe. These advancements would support future government and military communication systems by the 2029 target date.
The takeaway
This dialogue signals a shift toward sovereign control over vital communication infrastructure in a volatile geopolitical environment. Nations are increasingly prioritizing multi-vendor satellite strategies to ensure network reliability during international crises.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving landscape of European orbital infrastructure, visit the Space section.
Live Poll
Should nations prioritize building independent satellite infrastructure over participating in a shared federated system?
