In the aftermath of the conflict in Kosovo, the shortage of European military satellites is widely acknowledged and today the concept of an integrated European defence strategy is supported by many European governments.
Space is a critical area which can contribute to the harmonisation of European defence policies.
In this respect the consolidation of the European space industry is also a unique opportunity to establish a common, cost effective programme. The areas where European Space defence co-operation could be developed are telecommunications, surveillance and early warning systems. A Private Finance Initiative using Skynet and Syracuse military satellites and their follow-on programmes will be promoted. Investment by industry could provide military secure communications on the condition that the investor is guaranteed the use of a minimum number of transponders. A common European proposal is the logical development to replace the current NATO satellites when they come to the end of their operational lives in three to four years' time.