Russia is deploying its own satellite internet system similar to Starlink faster than expected and plans to have nearly 300 satellites in orbit by 2027. This was reported by Major General Vadym Skibitsky, Deputy Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
In an interview with the Ukrainian publication «RBK-Ukraine», he noted that Russia already has 16 satellites in its «Rassvet» system and has begun launching them faster than initially planned.
Advantages of Starlink for Ukraine and the Russian counterpart
The Starlink network of SpaceX, which operates in Ukraine but not in Russia, has given Kyiv a significant advantage in drone operations and communication on the battlefield. Russian forces used Starlink terminals purchased on the “gray market” in Ukraine until Kyiv managed to get SpaceX to shut them down earlier this year. This became one of several factors that changed the dynamics of hostilities in favor of Ukraine.
Currently, the Russian «Rassvet» system can only operate periodically when one of its satellites passes over the territory of Ukraine. At the same time, according to Skibitsky, Russia plans to create a grouping of 292 satellites by 2027 and increase it to 924 satellites by 2035.
Plans to counter the Russian system
«As soon as Russia deploys the full satellite grouping, the system will work like Starlink. Discussions are already underway on how to counter this», added the Deputy Head of the GUR.
Source: The Straits Times
