ASD Eurospace Sec Gen quoted in Euronews on space industry challenges
ASD Eurospace Secretary General, Olivier Lemaitre discusses urgent challenges in Europe's space industry, including supply chain risks and the need for a stronger industrial policy, in a recent Euronews article.
ASD Eurospace’s Secretary General, Olivier Lemaitre was quoted extensively in a Euronews article on 1 October 2024, which explored the nomination of Andrius Kubilius as the first-ever EU Commissioner for Defence and Space. The article looked at the obstacles the new Commissioner faces in advancing the EU’s space strategy. Despite the elevated recognition of space policy, concerns linger over the lack of ambition, funding, and institutional support for space programmes.
Olivier Lemaitre voiced his concerns in the article about the sustainability of Europe's space industry in light of supply chain disruptions and diminished competitiveness. “The EU should urgently address the issue of the security of the European space supply chains by devising an industrial policy for space in collaboration with the member states,” Lemaitre told Euronews. He emphasised the importance of a coordinated industrial strategy to stabilise production and improve Europe’s strategic independence in space-related technologies.
While Europe remains strong in Earth observation and navigation, its market position in commercial satellite launchers has weakened the article points out, underlining the need for robust policy action.
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Find out more about ASD Eurospace, which fosters the development of space activities in Europe and promotes a better understanding of space industry related issues and problems. ASD Eurospace member companies represent 90% of the total turnover of the European space industry.