Taking responsibility

EEE Space Component Sovereignty for Europe

Electrical, Electronic and Electromechanical (EEE) components are the fundamental building blocks of space missions. But the a large number of EEE parts, in particular high-value components, used in today’s ESA spacecraft originate from beyond Europe’s borders. This dependency on non-European suppliers leaves our space industry vulnerable to supply shocks and export restrictions, putting our very ability to build future spacecraft and systems at risk, and undercutting European competitiveness in global markets.

In response, ESA is proposing the EEE Space Component Sovereignty for Europe initiative. Working with industry, ESA Member States and European organisations such as European Commission and European Defence Agency, this initiative will ensure a stable, predictable development and procurement approach for EEE parts over an initial five-year period, compensating for current volatility in the global microprocessor market.