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Setting the EU standard for secure, adaptable and interoperable satellite communications to support military operations and the IRIS² constellation
SINT-NIKLAAS, Belgium, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ST Engineering iDirect's EU Satcom Centre of Excellence, ST Engineering iDirect Europe, based in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium, today announced the advancement of the European Protected Waveform (EPW) project to its second phase. Under the leadership of Belgium's Ministry of Defence and with ST Engineering iDirect Europe as the consortium lead, this milestone marks significant progress in enhancing secure and autonomous satellite communications for Europe.
The project brings together a consortium of 22 organisations from 12 EU Member States, encompassing experts from industry, government and academia. This collaborative effort aims to develop a comprehensive, end-to-end waveform solution designed to ensure resilient and secure communications for military operations and critical government needs in increasingly complex operational environments.
With the foundation established during Phase 1 that laid the framework for the waveform's initial development, Phase 2 focuses on the prototyping and integration of the EPW system. The goal is to provide secure, interoperable systems that align with Europe's strategic initiatives, including the future IRIS² satellite constellation and the EU GovSatCom programme.
"Together with ST Engineering iDirect Europe, we are investing in the backbone of modern military operations: secure and reliable communication," said Theo Francken, Belgian Minister of Defence. "With support from the European Defence Fund, we are advancing technological innovation, strengthening strategic autonomy, and enhancing the safety of our troops. In today's uncertain world, European cooperation in research and development is not a luxury — it's an absolute necessity. This project aligns perfectly with our broader mission to modernise Defence and deepen European collaboration in R&D."
"The advancement to EPW Phase 2 underscores the strategic importance of this initiative to bolster European autonomy in secure satellite communications," said Koen Willems, Vice President, EU Programmes, at ST Engineering iDirect Europe. "This recognition by the European Defence Fund demonstrates the urgent necessity to address emerging threats and foster resilience for critical operations across Europe."
The total investment in the EPW project now stands at €65 million, with €35 million dedicated to Phase 2 following the €30 million allocation in Phase 1. This investment highlights Europe's commitment to advancing protected satellite communications and strengthening collaborative defence capabilities among its Member States.
The European Protected Waveform (Phase 2) is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of ST Engineering iDirect Europe only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
About ST Engineering iDirect Europe
ST Engineering iDirect Europe, located in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium, is ST Engineering iDirect's EU Satcom Center of Excellence specialising in the development of ground segment technology and solutions specifically for the EU. As a legal Belgian entity, ST Engineering iDirect Europe has its own board of directors to comply to the guidelines and conditions as put forward by the EU Commission and the Belgian Government. With over 35 years of experience, the ST Engineering iDirect portfolio of high-value product lines and services in addition to a dedicated team of domain specialists, and a ISO9001 certified manufacturing center the team has a portfolio of capabilities to cater to the specific needs of European funded satcoms programs.
For more information visit https://www.idirect.net/st-engineering-idirect-europe/
Setting the EU standard for secure, adaptable and interoperable satellite communications to support military operations and the IRIS² constellation
SINT-NIKLAAS, Belgium, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ST Engineering iDirect's EU Satcom Centre of Excellence, ST Engineering iDirect Europe, based in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium, today announced the advancement of the European Protected Waveform (EPW) project to its second phase. Under the leadership of Belgium's Ministry of Defence and with ST Engineering iDirect Europe as the consortium lead, this milestone marks significant progress in enhancing secure and autonomous satellite communications for Europe.
The project brings together a consortium of 22 organisations from 12 EU Member States, encompassing experts from industry, government and academia. This collaborative effort aims to develop a comprehensive, end-to-end waveform solution designed to ensure resilient and secure communications for military operations and critical government needs in increasingly complex operational environments.
With the foundation established during Phase 1 that laid the framework for the waveform's initial development, Phase 2 focuses on the prototyping and integration of the EPW system. The goal is to provide secure, interoperable systems that align with Europe's strategic initiatives, including the future IRIS² satellite constellation and the EU GovSatCom programme.
"Together with ST Engineering iDirect Europe, we are investing in the backbone of modern military operations: secure and reliable communication," said Theo Francken, Belgian Minister of Defence. "With support from the European Defence Fund, we are advancing technological innovation, strengthening strategic autonomy, and enhancing the safety of our troops. In today's uncertain world, European cooperation in research and development is not a luxury — it's an absolute necessity. This project aligns perfectly with our broader mission to modernise Defence and deepen European collaboration in R&D."
"The advancement to EPW Phase 2 underscores the strategic importance of this initiative to bolster European autonomy in secure satellite communications," said Koen Willems, Vice President, EU Programmes, at ST Engineering iDirect Europe. "This recognition by the European Defence Fund demonstrates the urgent necessity to address emerging threats and foster resilience for critical operations across Europe."
The total investment in the EPW project now stands at €65 million, with €35 million dedicated to Phase 2 following the €30 million allocation in Phase 1. This investment highlights Europe's commitment to advancing protected satellite communications and strengthening collaborative defence capabilities among its Member States.
The European Protected Waveform (Phase 2) is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of ST Engineering iDirect Europe only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
About ST Engineering iDirect Europe
ST Engineering iDirect Europe, located in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium, is ST Engineering iDirect's EU Satcom Center of Excellence specialising in the development of ground segment technology and solutions specifically for the EU. As a legal Belgian entity, ST Engineering iDirect Europe has its own board of directors to comply to the guidelines and conditions as put forward by the EU Commission and the Belgian Government. With over 35 years of experience, the ST Engineering iDirect portfolio of high-value product lines and services in addition to a dedicated team of domain specialists, and a ISO9001 certified manufacturing center the team has a portfolio of capabilities to cater to the specific needs of European funded satcoms programs.
For more information visit https://www.idirect.net/st-engineering-idirect-europe/
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
ST Engineering iDirect Leads the European Protected Waveform Consortium into Phase 2
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LOS ANGELES, Dec. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TORRAS, the minimalist innovation brand known for blending expressive aesthetics with engineering precision, announces its first-ever global artist collaboration: TORRAS × GAWX — GUARDIAN of Your Creativity. This collection brings the concept of "guardianship" into everyday creation—turning a phone case into a vessel that records, captures, and protects each spark of inspiration.
Launching worldwide on December 20th, the series reflects TORRAS's commitment to empowering creativity through protection, design, and emotional connection.
Guardian of Creative Expression — Where Expressive Art Meets Minimalist Engineering Featuring Gawx
Gawx is a visual artist and filmmaker whose work blends bold pop-surreal illustration with high-end photography and cinematic storytelling.
Recognized for his distinctive creative voice, Gawx is a 2025 IMI Award Winner and RØDE Creator of the Year 2024. As a rising figure in contemporary visual culture, he brings a unique sense of emotion, authenticity, and imagination to the collaboration.
In GUARDIAN, Gawx transforms TORRAS's signature Ostand Q3 Air into a creative canvas. Each case becomes an extension of his artistic world— vibrant, emotional, and alive—wrapped within TORRAS's ultra-light, military-grade protection.
"Just like my dog guards me day and night — this case guards your phone, and your creativity." — Gawx Art
DUALITY — Two Lives, Two Dogs, One Guardian
The heart of the TORRAS × Gawx collaboration is DUALITY, a paired design concept inspired by the contrast between Day and Night—two creative lives unfolding in parallel, each shaped by different rhythms of inspiration.
Yet in both worlds, one value remains constant: Every creator deserves a Guardian.
DAY — Quiet Sparks, Gentle Inspiration
At sunrise, a calm, reflective boy walks with his loyal dog by his side. Together they embrace the quiet beauty of the morning.
He observes the world slowly awakening, capturing the subtle, fragile sparks of inspiration that often go unnoticed.
With its steady Ostand structure, TORRAS supports him like a silent guardian— helping him record the soft moments that shape his creativity.
NIGHT — Neon Motion, Bold Expression
Across the city under neon lights, a confident girl moves through the vibrant energy of the night.
Her energetic dog watches closely as she captures fast-moving fragments of light, emotion, and motion.
Her creativity thrives in chaos — and TORRAS protects her phone with unwavering strength, allowing her to seize every vivid moment without hesitation.
GUARDIAN — Protecting Your Creativity, Your Stories, Your Life
In two worlds, with two creators and their loyal companions, one truth remains: every spark of inspiration deserves to be guarded. The GUARDIAN collection turns TORRAS into the protector of your creativity—safeguarding your device, your ideas, and the moments you choose to capture. Featuring Gawx's original artwork across the case, packaging, collectible stickers, and the 360° magnetic Ostand—unfolding like a portal into each story—GUARDIAN seamlessly merges artistic expression with purposeful protection. This collaboration marks a new chapter where a phone case becomes more than defense; it becomes a companion that follows your rhythm, elevates your craft, and honors every creator, dreamer, and storyteller who finds meaning in life's fleeting moments. Record it. Capture it. Let TORRAS guard it.
Exclusive First-Launch Promotion
To celebrate the December release, TORRAS announces a limited early-bird offer:
Shop at: https://bit.ly/3L14XJn
- Theme: Guardian of Your Creativity
- Collection: TORRAS × GAWX Limited Edition
- Launch Date: December 20th
- Retail Price: $79.99
- Launch Offer: 10% OFF on any purchase during the first five days following launch!
- Promotion period: December 20th – December 25th
Holiday & Winter Colorways Join the Lineup
Completing the seasonal lineup, TORRAS introduces additional winter designs for the Q3 Air series:
Christmas Edition — Christmas Tree Green
A festive refresh featuring decorative sticker elements — stars, bells, and snowmen — turning your phone into a playful tree of creativity.
Winter Colors:
- Aurora Purple — calm yet powerful, inspired by winter twilight skies.
- Neon Sunset — pink and orange horizons captured in motion, full of freedom and warmth.
- Each colorway continues TORRAS's philosophy: to help people discover beauty in motion and create more with less.
About TORRAS
Founded in 2012, TORRAS is a global technology and lifestyle brand dedicated to minimalist innovation. Guided by the philosophy "Born to Create," TORRAS designs user-centered products that transform everyday moments into acts of creativity — blending protection, performance, and art into a seamless experience.
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TORRAS, the minimalist innovation brand known for blending expressive aesthetics with engineering precision, announces its first-ever global artist collaboration: TORRAS × GAWX — GUARDIAN of Your Creativity. This collection brings the concept of "guardianship" into everyday creation—turning a phone case into a vessel that records, captures, and protects each spark of inspiration.
Launching worldwide on December 20th, the series reflects TORRAS's commitment to empowering creativity through protection, design, and emotional connection.
Guardian of Creative Expression — Where Expressive Art Meets Minimalist Engineering Featuring Gawx
Gawx is a visual artist and filmmaker whose work blends bold pop-surreal illustration with high-end photography and cinematic storytelling.
Recognized for his distinctive creative voice, Gawx is a 2025 IMI Award Winner and RØDE Creator of the Year 2024. As a rising figure in contemporary visual culture, he brings a unique sense of emotion, authenticity, and imagination to the collaboration.
In GUARDIAN, Gawx transforms TORRAS's signature Ostand Q3 Air into a creative canvas. Each case becomes an extension of his artistic world— vibrant, emotional, and alive—wrapped within TORRAS's ultra-light, military-grade protection.
"Just like my dog guards me day and night — this case guards your phone, and your creativity." — Gawx Art
DUALITY — Two Lives, Two Dogs, One Guardian
The heart of the TORRAS × Gawx collaboration is DUALITY, a paired design concept inspired by the contrast between Day and Night—two creative lives unfolding in parallel, each shaped by different rhythms of inspiration.
Yet in both worlds, one value remains constant: Every creator deserves a Guardian.
DAY — Quiet Sparks, Gentle Inspiration
At sunrise, a calm, reflective boy walks with his loyal dog by his side. Together they embrace the quiet beauty of the morning.
He observes the world slowly awakening, capturing the subtle, fragile sparks of inspiration that often go unnoticed.
With its steady Ostand structure, TORRAS supports him like a silent guardian— helping him record the soft moments that shape his creativity.
NIGHT — Neon Motion, Bold Expression
Across the city under neon lights, a confident girl moves through the vibrant energy of the night.
Her energetic dog watches closely as she captures fast-moving fragments of light, emotion, and motion.
Her creativity thrives in chaos — and TORRAS protects her phone with unwavering strength, allowing her to seize every vivid moment without hesitation.
GUARDIAN — Protecting Your Creativity, Your Stories, Your Life
In two worlds, with two creators and their loyal companions, one truth remains: every spark of inspiration deserves to be guarded. The GUARDIAN collection turns TORRAS into the protector of your creativity—safeguarding your device, your ideas, and the moments you choose to capture. Featuring Gawx's original artwork across the case, packaging, collectible stickers, and the 360° magnetic Ostand—unfolding like a portal into each story—GUARDIAN seamlessly merges artistic expression with purposeful protection. This collaboration marks a new chapter where a phone case becomes more than defense; it becomes a companion that follows your rhythm, elevates your craft, and honors every creator, dreamer, and storyteller who finds meaning in life's fleeting moments. Record it. Capture it. Let TORRAS guard it.
Exclusive First-Launch Promotion
To celebrate the December release, TORRAS announces a limited early-bird offer:
Shop at: https://bit.ly/3L14XJn
- Theme: Guardian of Your Creativity
- Collection: TORRAS × GAWX Limited Edition
- Launch Date: December 20th
- Retail Price: $79.99
- Launch Offer: 10% OFF on any purchase during the first five days following launch!
- Promotion period: December 20th – December 25th
Holiday & Winter Colorways Join the Lineup
Completing the seasonal lineup, TORRAS introduces additional winter designs for the Q3 Air series:
Christmas Edition — Christmas Tree Green
A festive refresh featuring decorative sticker elements — stars, bells, and snowmen — turning your phone into a playful tree of creativity.
Winter Colors:
- Aurora Purple — calm yet powerful, inspired by winter twilight skies.
- Neon Sunset — pink and orange horizons captured in motion, full of freedom and warmth.
- Each colorway continues TORRAS's philosophy: to help people discover beauty in motion and create more with less.
About TORRAS
Founded in 2012, TORRAS is a global technology and lifestyle brand dedicated to minimalist innovation. Guided by the philosophy "Born to Create," TORRAS designs user-centered products that transform everyday moments into acts of creativity — blending protection, performance, and art into a seamless experience.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
TORRAS Teams up With Artist GAWX to Launch "Guardian of Your Creativity" Collection Worldwide
TORRAS Teams up With Artist GAWX to Launch "Guardian of Your Creativity" Collection Worldwide