EUSPA Secures Continuity of EGNOS Services
The European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) has awarded Thales Alenia Space with a contract to extend the operational life of the current European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service System-in-Operations (EGNOS V2) worth at least €51 million. Named LIFEX 1 (Life Extension Phase 1), this contract ensures that EGNOS V2 continues to provide reliable and secure navigation services beyond 2028.
Enhancing Accuracy and Safety
EGNOS improves the accuracy, reliability, and integrity of GNSS signals such as GPS and, in the future, Galileo. This contract will focus on critical upgrades, reinforcing security, modernizing components, and ensuring the continued reliability of EGNOS’s “Safety of Life” service, which enables precision landings at European airports without the need for ground-based navigation aids.
“EGNOS is a key asset for Europe, ensuring safer and more efficient transport. This contract strengthens the system’s resilience and supports a growing number of users,” said Rodrigo da Costa, EUSPA Executive Director.
A Step Forward for European Satellite Navigation
Thales Alenia Space, a long-time partner in EGNOS development, will oversee system enhancements. “We are proud to support EUSPA in extending the lifetime of this essential system. This contract reinforces our role in European satellite navigation and ensures EGNOS continues to serve critical sectors,” said David Philipona, Vice-President Navigation, Thales Alenia Space.
About EGNOS
EGNOS is a flagship EU space programme, designed to enhance GNSS performance across aviation, maritime, land transport, and agriculture. Operational since 2009, EGNOS V2 is managed by EUSPA, with Thales Alenia Space as the prime contractor. The system plays a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient navigation across Europe.
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