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On the evening of March 20, 2025, at the Swiss Ambassador’s Residence in Warsaw, an exclusive gathering unfolded under the patronage of Mr. Fabrice Filliez, the Ambassador of Switzerland in Poland, and CYSAT, the world's biggest community dedicated to cybersecurity for the space industry.
This event, centered around “The Challenge of European Sovereignty in Space for Diplomatic and Defence Capabilities", brought together key representatives from the diplomatic, defense, and industrial sectors of Poland, Switzerland, and the broader European context.
THE SIGN.MEDIA had the honor of being present at this meeting.
At the heart of the evening was an in-depth conversation on the critical importance of strengthening Europe’s role in space, particularly in terms of security and strategic autonomy. The evening also acted as a platform for vital discourse, with the focus on fortifying European collaboration, leveraging technological innovation, and navigating the complex geopolitical challenges that affect the space sector.
The highlight of the event was the key note address by Massimo Mercati, Head of Security at the European Space Agency (ESA). Mr. Mercati shared valuable insights into the evolving space security landscape and the paramount needs for Europe to bolster its security capabilities in the face of mounting threats.
The discussion was far from theoretical; it offered real-world reflections on how Europe must adapt its strategy and technology to safeguard its interests in space. Participants touched on a range of concerns that have emerged in recent years – ranging from cyber threats targeting space infrastructure to an increased importance of the space domain in terms of security , economy and daylight life of the European citizen.
It was highlighted ESA’s efforts in developing robust security frameworks to protect Europe’s space assets. With the continued rise of complex cyber threats ESA has put in place a security strategy and implementing capabilities to secure its space systems as design and as build, with a continuous process of certification and accreditation.
One of the central messages emphasized during the event was the importance of European unity in the space domain. In a time when international power dynamics are shifting, Europe must develop its own identity and resilience in space. Experts firmly believe in the security sovereignty of each European Member states but also on the needs for Europe to underline collaboration, harmonizing capabilities and pooling resources to build a secure and autonomous space infrastructure.
Mr. Mercati underscored that ESA has all the management and engineering competence and security capabilities to develop secure systems to support Europe to shape its resilience capabilities.
Europe’s ability to operate autonomously in space, secure its satellites, and fend off cyberattacks is no longer just an option – it is a critical necessity as echoed by other distinguished guests at the event, including industry leaders and diplomats, who discussed the role of startups in driving innovation and the importance of creating frameworks that enable young companies to thrive while ensuring that security remains a priority. Startups, with their fresh perspectives and agile approaches, are seen as key contributors to Europe’s competitiveness in the global space sector.
The importance of collaboration was reinforced by initiative that fosters innovation and dialogue on space security. CYSAT’s involvement in the event exemplified the growing role of public-private partnerships in addressing the complex challenges of space security.
With the backing of institutions like ESA and support from national security agencies, the space ecosystem in Europe can become more resilient, innovative, and secure.
Author: Olga Nasibullina, Co-Founder of THE SIGN.MEDIA
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