European satellite systems in service of Europeansecurity and defence

European satellite systems, which provide crucial information in crisis situations should constitute an important element of the new EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy, said Bogdan Zdrojewski, presenting his report on the European space capabilities for security and defence to the Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE). The document primarily draws attention to the significance and potential of technology and satellite systems in the context of European security and defence.

"European satellite system, created for civilian purposes, has to embark also other burdens of responsibility for the security of our continent"- said Bogdan Zdrojewski. 

"On the one hand, it will still perform more and more sophisticated tasks serving our economy, science, and education among others. But on the other hand it should be a source of information on various dangers, natural catastrophes as well as those caused by, terrorist groups. It demands long-term financial guaranties, and professional equipment"- he added.  

There are currently two major EU satellite programs: Galileo- European satellite navigation system (which serves as the base for such systems as eCall) and Copernicus- the European earth observation system.

Galileo is meant as an alternative to the American GPS and the Russian GLONASS, but contrary to those systems, it will be controlled by civilian institutions. It competes and supplements the American GPS because of a higher level of precision.

Copernicus has the ability to, among others, monitor border flows, maritime situation, climate changes, early warning, as well as observation of critical installations, such as nuclear plants.

The report should be voted during the Foreign Affairs Committee meeting on 18-19 April, and its adoption by the European Parliament is planned for the plenary session in June.