EUMETSAT Unveils Strategy 2040 for Future Satellite Systems
EUMETSAT has launched its Strategy 2040, focusing on enhancing secure satellite data services and preparing future weather and climate monitoring systems
EUMETSAT presented its new Strategy 2040 today at its Meteorological Satellite Conference in Darmstadt. The plan aims to deliver enhanced, secure, and cost-effective satellite data services while preparing future operational systems for the coming decades.
Phil Evans, Director-General of EUMETSAT, stated the organization's focus. With this new strategy, EUMETSAT will focus on delivering the full value of its new satellite systems today, while preparing the future programmes, partnerships and digital services needed to keep Europe’s weather and climate information trusted, secure and cost-effective.
The strategy is built around three core priorities: delivering enhanced operational services, preparing future systems through innovation, and strengthening international partnerships. By 2040, EUMETSAT aims to be a globally trusted leader in weather, climate, and Earth system monitoring from space.
Delivering More Value Today
A major immediate goal is ensuring the Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) and EUMETSAT Polar System, Second Generation (EPS-SG) deliver their full benefits. When fully deployed by the end of 2026, these systems will form a key European Earth observation capability. They are designed to support better weather forecasts, severe weather warnings, and sustained climate data records.
Preparing Future Satellite Systems
The strategy outlines a path for future systems through to 2040. This includes preparing new operational concepts like EPS-Sterna and planned EPS-Aeolus and Altimetry programmes. EUMETSAT will also explore using commercial providers where they add value.
Work will begin on the next generations of core programmes: Meteosat Fourth Generation and EUMETSAT Polar System, Third Generation. This preparation, done in close consultation with users, is intended to ensure seamless service continuity beyond the 2040s through a resilient and affordable architecture.
Future-Proofing Digital Infrastructure
EUMETSAT will evolve its data services and ground infrastructure. The strategy guides the development of services like EUMETCast, the EUMETSAT Data Store, and the European Weather Cloud. It also supports using AI and machine learning to improve service performance and offer new functionalities.
A multi-mission ground system approach will be pursued for future programmes. This involves using common, upgradeable building blocks across missions to reduce IT, cybersecurity, and maintenance risks.
Cooperation as a Strategic Enabler
Strong cooperation is deemed essential for delivering the strategy. EUMETSAT will work within the European Meteorological Infrastructure alongside its 30 Member States, their national services, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, and EUMETNET.
The organization will also maximize synergies with EU programmes like Copernicus and Destination Earth while preserving its independent intergovernmental character. International cooperation, including supporting the use of its data in Africa for climate resilience, remains a priority. Delivering the strategy will require targeted investment in recruitment, skills, and staff engagement to ensure the necessary expertise for future systems.
