Space sovereignty and competitiveness: Keys to Europe’s future

GMV sponsored the first edition of Sector Espacial, a space sector conference organized by the Prensa Ibérica media group and held in Madrid on October 19 under the theme “The new European space era: Science, security, low Earth orbit, and the new economy for technological sovereignty”. The event brought together institutional representatives, defence officials, companies, technology centers, and experts to examine the challenges and opportunities that will shape Europe’s future in space. Key topics included protecting Earth, safeguarding strategic infrastructure, and building a space economy that strengthens the continent’s competitiveness and autonomy.

The conference was opened by Juan Carlos Cortés, director of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE), who highlighted the progress the space sector has made in recent years through programs such as Galileo and Copernicus. He also stressed the importance of space sovereignty and of controlling the entire life cycle of space capabilities. He was followed by María Amparo Valcarce, Spain’s Secretary of State for Defence, whose remarks set the stage for the program’s panel discussions.

GMV also took part in the panel “Space as strategic and security infrastructure: The industry perspective”, moderated by Cecilia Hernández, director of programs and industry at the AEE. Speaking on the panel, Enrique Fraga, general manager of Space Systems at GMV, underscored Spain’s potential to lead space programs on a global scale and the importance of joining forces across Europe to ensure the long-term viability of the space business. He also emphasized the need to foster a competitive industry with clear objectives and a long-term vision of leadership that looks beyond present-day needs.

Overall, the day’s presentations highlighted the importance of collaboration between public institutions and industry in tackling the challenges facing the European space sector, as well as Spain’s ability to develop competitive technology, contribute to Europe’s leadership, and meet the continent’s current and future needs.