By Keith Blanchet, Vice President of International Government and Defense
At the recent Space Defense and Security Summit (SSDS) in Paris, one message resonated across discussions and engagements: nations can no longer choose between sovereignty and interoperability—they must pursue both.
Space and satellite communications have become central to nations’ defense strategies. From ensuring secure command and control to supporting multi-domain operations, the demand for resilient and adaptable systems is accelerating. The SSDS made clear that protecting national interests while enabling coalition operations is now the defining challenge of modern defense space policy.
Sovereignty as a Strategic Imperative
Many nations underscored that sovereign control over space assets is no longer optional. Sovereign programs—whether in satellite constellations, ground networks, or secure communications—are being expanded to guarantee independence in moments of crisis.
This push is not about isolation but resilience. By safeguarding their own networks, governments ensure freedom of action while gaining the confidence to integrate with allies when needed. Sovereignty is increasingly viewed not as a technical preference but as a core pillar of national security.
Interoperability as the Enabler of Alliances
At the same time, interoperability emerged as an equally vital priority. No mission today is conducted in isolation. Whether in Europe, the Asia-Pacific, or North America, joint operations require seamless communication across nations and platforms.
Summit participants highlighted the importance of multi-orbit, multi-waveform, and multi-constellation solutions. These technologies allow sovereign systems to remain secure and distinct while still connecting into allied frameworks. Interoperability is becoming the “glue” of modern coalitions—critical to shared deterrence and operational effectiveness.
Industry as Architect of Trust
A recurring theme was the role of the satcom industry in bridging sovereignty and interoperability. Governments are turning to industry partners to design systems that can both protect national networks and enable coalition integration.
Innovations in secure modems, sovereign waveforms, and orchestration platforms are helping to meet this dual demand. The next generation of satcom and space solutions will not only deliver technical capability but also act as architects of trust, ensuring partners can collaborate without compromising national independence.
A Global Convergence
What stood out most in Paris was the convergence of priorities across regions:
- Sovereign programs are accelerating worldwide to protect national communications.
- Interoperability frameworks are being designed from the onset, not as afterthoughts.
- Industry partnerships and standards are central to making both possible.
This alignment points to a new global space order—one in which sovereignty and interoperability reinforce rather than compete with each other through industry-driven standards.
The Road Ahead
The summit confirmed what many in defense already know: the future of space security will be built on two pillars. Sovereignty provides strength, interoperability provides reach. Together, they create the resilience required in an unpredictable world.
For military leaders, policymakers, and industry alike, the task ahead is clear—design systems that protect national interests while ensuring coalition partners can operate as one.
At ST Engineering iDirect, we have long been focused on finding that balance. We are keen to engage with representatives of nations looking to bridge sovereignty and interoperability. Our Intuition ground system as well as our 5G NTN solution are designed to serve this purpose.