Satellite Tech and Smart Data Take Root in Europe’s Farming Future

In Reims, the annual EU conference on agricultural monitoring and policy innovation.

Against the backdrop of growing environmental pressures and rapid digital change, Reims welcomed over 400 experts, policymakers, and industry professionals for the Integrated Administration and Control System (IACS) Community Exchange Conference (ICE).

Organised by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development (DG AGRI), in partnership with the Joint Research Centre (JRC) and the French Services and Payment Agency (ASP), the annual flagship conference focused on practical ways satellite technology and data systems are helping Member States manage farmland more efficiently and transparently.

From real-time monitoring of agricultural parcels to giving farmers more control over their data, 2025 ICE offered a hands-on look at how IACS is evolving to support the next phase of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) beyond 2027.

Making monitoring work for farmers

The 2025 edition of ICE highlighted the transformative role of satellite-based Area Monitoring Systems (AMS) in CAP delivery. With AMS now fully automating area-based payments, farmers can adjust their applications almost up to the payment date, helping avoid penalties and reducing paperwork. In 2024 alone, over 3 million hectares were corrected thanks to AMS.

"AMS is no longer questioned. Member States are seeing a return on investment through reduced administrative burden and fewer on-the-spot checks," said Nicola Britta Holsten, Deputy Head of Unit for CAP Strategic Plans Coordination, DG AGRI.

The exchanges confirmed the value of IACS as a uniquely comprehensive system-combining AMS, the Geospatial Aid Application (GSA), and the Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS)-which covers more than 90% of EU agricultural land. This integrated approach improves accuracy and reduces the need for on-site farm inspections, easing the workload for both farmers and administrations.

Preparing for CAP post-2027: data, farmers, and innovation

The conference looked ahead to the future of CAP, with strong interest in expanding Earth Observation to forest and soil health, and combining satellite data with other sources like machinery and lab results. These ideas are reflected in the proposed European Land Monitoring System (ELMS).

"The post-2027 CAP must put the farmer at the centre, granting them ownership of their data," echoed several Member State delegates during panel discussions.

"We welcome ELMS as a voluntary tool that allows Member States to innovate while respecting farmers' rights," noted a representative from the French Paying Agency.

Data sharing and satellite continuity

2025 ICE also addressed the importance of data sharing and the need for continuity in satellite infrastructure. Member States called on ESA and European Commission's Directorate-General for Defence to maintain the current Sentinel-2 satellite configuration and support civil agricultural monitoring.

"DG AGRI must continue to communicate civil use cases to ensure future satellite configurations meet agricultural needs," stressed a delegate from ESA.

While there is broad support for sharing IACS data, participants agreed that any data sharing must be done with farmers' consent.

A platform that delivers

2025 ICE provided a vital space for Member States, researchers, and industry to share experiences, explore new approaches, and discuss how digital tools can better support farmers and administrations. It also reaffirmed DG AGRI's central role as the largest civil user and buyer of very high-resolution satellite imagery in driving innovation.

"The simplification efforts made by DG AGRI with JRC support are appreciated. Now, Member States call for stability for the rest of the CAP period," said a delegate from Poland.

As the CAP continues to evolve, ICE remains a key forum for collaboration-helping ensure that technical developments stay aligned with policy goals and the needs of the farming community.

For more information, visit the 2025 ICE Conference page.