Media

Space is supposed to be used peacefully. However, this does not apply to military satellite communications. At the Munich Cyber Security Conference 2026, it became clear that the Starlink system is also vulnerable. An independent network is needed.

Handelsblatt discussed with Clemens Kaiser, Deputy CEO and Chief Program Officer of Rivada Space Networks, why space and defense belong together and what priorities Germany should set.

Clemens Kaiser, Chief Program Officer and Deputy CEO, discusses why space and defense belong together and what priorities Germany should set.

This discussion centred on the key drivers of development and innovation in the satellite industry, emphasising that customer needs are the main motivators, reflecting a shift from prioritising throughput to enhancing resilience.

In Germany, the current lack of innovation and the fear of a dwindling economic power play a major role. But there is hope: A strong space cluster has been developing Bavaria for years, enabling new innovations. This article was published in ‘Starkes Land Bayern’. This is a regional business magazine that appears twice a year as a supplement in the Bavarian edition of Europe’s highest-circulation news magazine DER SPIEGEL.

Dr. Clemens Kaiser from Rivada Space speaks to Annette Weisbach, business journalist for international media such as CNBC, Bloomberg and DW-TV for over 15 years, providing exciting insights into the future of satellite communications and explain how this technology enables secure data transmission – both for companies and governments.

Rivada Space from Munich is building a satellite internet for companies only, similar to SpaceX’s Starlink. The project is backed by well-known investors and high-ranking US politicians.

We welcomed the German journalist Thomas Magenheim in our brand new office in Munich. Clemens Kaiser discussed with him the business model of the OuterNET and the differences to the Starlink model as well as regulatory and investment topics.

Besides the “official” satellite constellation that the European Union wants to commission, Rivada Space Networks from Munich and Berlin is also working on a commercial European alternative to Starlink.