The delay was called upon so that members of parliament could be fully informed about the reasons for the budget increase.

The Luxeosys programme will see the launch and operation of a defence satellite that can be used to deliver high resolution images of the Earth’s surface, for example to monitor natural disasters or provide intelligence on conflict zones.

It is a crucial part of Luxembourg’s commitment to meet its defence requirements and obligations to Nato’s defence efforts. This means there is not insignificant pressure to unblock the additional funds needed to complete the project before the end of the year. But the difference between the initial estimated cost and what is now required for completion is a staggering €139 million.

For months now, MPs on the parliamentary budgetary control committee have been trying to find out why the costs have rocketed. A first set of conclusions will be presented to the committee next week in a report entrusted to MPs Diane Adehm (CSV) and Guy Arendt (DP). But taking into account possible amendments to the draft and the need for all committee members to be able to fully consult it, the vote on the budget extension bill has been postponed until November.

Translated and edited from an article first published in French by Paperjam.