Russia’s state space agency, Roscosmos, has announced plans to develop its own satellite communications system modeled on SpaceX’s Starlink, in a move aimed at strengthening technological independence and securing military communications.
Dmitry Bakanov, head of Roscosmos revealed the project during an interview on the “Solovyov Live” program, stressing the necessity of building a domestic satellite network.
“Russia will soon have its own Starlink-like system,” Bakanov said, underlining the importance of producing indigenous communications satellites.
The announcement comes amid growing reports that both Russian and Ukrainian forces have relied on Starlink terminals during the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian troops, supported by Western allies, reportedly operate over 50,000 Starlink terminals, according to Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
While Russian officials have previously insisted that local satellite constellations already provide continuous coverage for the military, Bakanov’s comments signal a push for a more robust and autonomous infrastructure.
The U.S.-based Starlink system, owned by SpaceX, delivers high-speed internet globally and has been widely deployed by Ukrainian forces on the frontlines. Russian military units have repeatedly targeted Starlink terminals in contested areas, underscoring the system’s strategic importance.
By pursuing a domestic equivalent, Russia seeks to reduce reliance on foreign systems and mitigate vulnerabilities exposed during the war. The planned network would also mark a significant step in Moscow’s broader ambition to expand its presence in the global space communications market.
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