26/03/2026 (Agence Europe) – Following the green light from the Council of the European Union (see EUROPE 13810/29), on Thursday 26 March the European Commission, Norway and Iceland signed the agreement on the participation of these two European third countries in the GOVSATCOM component of the EU space programme, operational since January 2026, as well as in the EU secure connectivity programme for the deployment of the IRIS² satellite constellation. “By joining these programs, Norway and Iceland will gain access to high-tier encrypted communication services. These tools are essential for protecting sensitive information, supporting public authorities, and ensuring the safety of air and maritime navigation across the North Atlantic and Arctic. (MB)